under the Marine Mammal Protection Act II. Date of Application: November 6, 1991 / I III. Applicant The applicant, Sea World, Inc. is a direct subsidiary of Busch Entertainment Corporation, and an indirect subsidiary of the Anheuser-Busch companies, Inc. , a publicly owned corporation. Sea World, Inc. operates marine zoological parks located in San Diego, California; Aurora, Ohio: Orlando, Florida; and San Antonio, Texas. Address all correspondence regarding this application to: Brad f. Andrews Vice President/Zoological Operations Sea World, Inc. 7007 Sea World Drive orlando, Florida 32821-8097 (407) 363-2155 rv. Description of animals: A. Number: a. Type: 2 adult female killer whales (Orcinys orcs) 1 adult male killer whale (Orcinus orca) Progeny - this request includes authorization for progeny of the female whales which appear to be pregnant, as described below. Juveniles would be imported with their mothers at a time after at least twelve months of age and as prescribed by sea World veterinary staff. Import for public display. Estimated
Est. Reproductive Age condition
Identification Male_ Female Female 20 1 17'1n 18' 11 11 12 adult adult adult Tillikum Nootka Haida Haida's calf is expected in November of 1991. Nootka's calf is expected in February of 1992. c. Dates/Locations: Authorization is requested as described below for the import of the whales from Sealand of the Pacifi'c Ltd., 1327 Beach Drive, Victoria, B.C. VSS 2N4. 2 Sealand of the Pacific plans to discontinue the display of killer whales in its facility in 1992. Tillikum: Due to the disruptive and potentially harmful impact this male may have on the success of motherjcalf nursing and bonding, authorization is requested for the relocation of this animal to Sea World of Florida as soon as possible. Haida: If Haida gives birth successfully, she and her calf would be imported to Sea World of Florida not sooner than 12 months after the birth, and more likely in early 1993. If Haida, who is carrying her first calf, is unsuccessful, she may remain in Canada with Nootka for purposes of companionship until import to Sea World of Florida when Nootka andjor Nootka's calf (if Nootka gives birth successfully), are imported to Sea World of Texas (see below) unless compatibility problems require an earlier import. Nootka: If Nootka gives birth successfully, she and her calf would be imported to Sea World of Texas not sooner than 12 months after the birth, and more likely in the early summer of 1993. If Nootka, who is also carrying her first calf, is unsuccessful, she may remain in Canada with Haida for purposes of companionship until import to Sea World of Texas when Haida andjor Haida's calf (if Haida gives birth successfully), are imported to Sea World of Florida (see above) unless compatibility problems require an earlier import. A description of the condition of the animals at Sealand is provided in Attachment IV C, correspondence from Jim McBain, D.V.M. We request that this authorization remain valid until December 1993. D. Description of the status of stocks: The status of killer whales in the North Atlantic was reviewed in 1987 (Sigurjonsson and Leatherwood, Eds. 1988) During postcard censuses conducted in conjunction with herring fishing in the fall of 1982, a minimum of 284 animals were counted on a single day, 15 October (Sigurjonsson, 1984). All were within a few nautical miles of shore along the east and southeast coast of Iceland. Scientists and fishermen expressed the belief that there were many more than 284 killer whales off Iceland, a view that 3 as supported by the fact that the census covered such a small area and short time period and because whales are known to occur during the same period elsewhere off Iceland. Nevertheless, in the absence of other information, this count has stood as the estimate of the population of killer whales in Icelandic coastal waters. Low effort photoidentification studies conducted in 1985 and 1986 focused on the same area of the east coast represented by the postcard census. Supplemented with a few photographs from other years since 1981, these studies resulted in the identification of at least 143 recognizable individual whales and provided some insight into composition and production in the population (Lyrholm et al. 1987; Sigurjonsson et al 1988). The coverage was 1 imi ted in area and time and corresponded with low light levels. Many more animals were thought seen than could be photoidentified. Thus, this represents a small subset of the 284 animal minimum count and was considered by the investigators to be an extremely small proportion of the population of killer whales in Icelandic waters. In 1987, three Icelandic sighting vessels conducted 1 ine transect surveys in and near the extended economic zone of Iceland. Observers aboard the three vessels reported a total of 25 sightings totalling 177 individuals. The animals were widely distributed around Iceland, although there was a notable area of concentration some 40-100 nautical miles east of Iceland. This survey sample supports a statistical estimate of 6,847 killer whales in the areas surveyed, with a lower 95% confidence limit of about 4, 000 (Sigurjonsson et al. 1988; Gunlaugsson and Sigurj onsson 1988) . Surveys were conducted simultaneously in Faroese waters. When these figures are included, an estimate of 8,272 killer whales is obtained for these two contiguous regions of the northeastern North Atlantic (coefficient of variation 0.32). Christensen (1984;1988) estimated that there was a minimum of about 1,300 killer whales in Norwegian coastal waters during the same period the surveys were conducted off Iceland and the Faroese. Evans (1988) reviewed sightings data for killer whales in British and Irish waters and concluded that there 4 was little evidence for any change in the status of killer whales in those waters. There are no estimates for other areas of the North Atlantic although it is known that killer whales occur in many other areas, including the pelagic regions in which few studies have been conducted. Therefore, it is certain that the surveys cited above do not account for all killer whales in the North Atlantic. It is reasonable then to offer an estimate of 9,572 killer whales for studied areas of the North Atlantic, and of at least 4,000 for the extended economic zone of Iceland. There is no reason to believe that the population of killer whales in the North Atlantic has increased or deceased significantly in recent decades. The larger estimate currently available simply reflects an increased knowledge concerning these populations. E. Reason: Not applicable. F. Country, Manner of Taking and Management The male killer whale was collected, utilizing a purse seine net (Asper 1975) from Icelandic waters in 1983. The female whales were collected from Icelandic waters in the same manner in 1982. The Icelandic Ministry of Fisheries has regulated the collection of killer whales in cooperation with the Marine Research Institute, Reykjavik and the State Veterinarian since 1976. Permits were issued on the basis of the best available information on size and status of the Icelandic killer whale stock(s) (Sigurjonsson and Leatherwood, 1988) . Sealand of the Pacific has maintained these killer whales in its facility at 1327 Beach Drive, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada V8S 2N4. The order Cetacea (all species except those listed in Appendix I or listed under earlier dates in Appendix II) were listed on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), Appendix II on June 28, 1979. Under the regulations implementing the CITES, the Canadian Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment is responsible for licensing activities pertaining to the transfer of cetaceans. 5 v. Visitation The educational, conservation and scientific endeavors of Sea World are widely known and respected. By the end of 1990, more than 140 million visitors had benefitted from the exposure to Sea World's marine mammals, including killer whales, as well as the birds and fish. While innovative family recreational programs are Sea World's most visible facets, the company's commitment to education and conservation is indisputably significant. Sea World's formal and informal educational programs are truly representative of the very best that the zoological community provides. Sea World public displays expose the public to marine mammals in an exhilarating and educational manner. This is accomplished through a variety of media, including live animal exhibits, presentations, demonstrations, audiovisual and graphic displays, and narrated tours and other group activities. In addition to these award winning public displays, Sea World offers an extraordinary number of special programs designed for visitors wishing to learn more about marine mammals. More than one million children and adults participated in formal instructional programs at the four Sea World parks in 1990. The curricula for these programs are developed by certified and experienced educators. These programs are designed to enhance and reinforce state academic requirements for grades pre- school through college. Teachers whose schools participate in educational programs receive a curriculum aid packet developed for specific grade levels. Curriculum materials enable teachers to prepare students for the special animal presentations and exhibits they will visit at Sea World. Instructional field trips generally include two marine mammal presentations and visits to exhibit areas where specially trained education staff provide animal narrations geared to the grade level of the students and are available to answer students' questions about the animals. This program provides students the opportunity to investigate the exciting topic of marine ecosystem and addresses the subjects such as natural history of the animals, principles of ecology, adaptations, natural behavior, as well as the timely topics of conservation and responsible human behavior. Outreach programs are made available for those schools that cannot visit the parks. Schools choose appropriate age levels and topics for the presentation. Sea World instructors present the assembly style programs utilizing slides, videos, biological artifacts, songs, skits and 6 animal adaptation "dress up" activities. Live marine mammals are not presented. A number of these programs have been recognized by national awards from the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums. All Sea World parks offer specially designed classes, seminars and college sessions concentrating on special topics requested by professors. Many of the classes conducted make participants eligible for college credit or teacher re-accreditation. Teacher training workshops and seminars offer opportunities for school teachers to obtain professional enrichment, career advancement, and college credit. Sea World instructors provide solid factual background information and assist teachers in integrating marine science into their own curriculum and individual lesson plans. These workshops and seminars include valuable information, laboratory procedures and activities that teachers can use in their classrooms. Outreach workshops are also made available to school districts that want their teachers trained in conservation and marine science integrated programs. Special programs are available for people of all levels and abilities. Programs for accelerated students focus on high level thinking skills and cooperative learning activities. Disabled students are offered specially designed programs that meet their individual needs. Materials are also available for the vision and hearing impaired, including a braille book of Sea World animal information, an animal sounds audio tape and activity book and an award winning video tape in sign language for the hearing impaired. Several parks provide bilingualjESL (English as a second language) specialists and programs that enable Spanish speaking students to experience Sea World in their own language. Throughout the year, Sea World offers a wide variety of on-site lectures, classroom presentations and camp sessions which highlight the marine life, including killer whales, that are displayed in the parks. These programs are available to the general public of all ages by individual enrollment. Educational programs are available at reduced rates which enable students of all ages, abilities and socio-economic backgrounds to benefit from educational opportunities. This may give some students the only opportunity they may ever have to see these animals and develop an appreciation and concern for the marine environment and all of its inhabitants. 7 Consistent with the purposes of the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the educational programs at Sea World create an enthusiastic, imaginative and intellectually stimulating atmosphere that contribute to a better understanding and appreciation of marine mammal science, research and conservation. Research and conservation have been an integral part of Sea World from the beginning. In 1963, the founders of Sea World organized and incorporated the Mission Bay Research Foundation, a non-profit research institute, now over a quarter century old known as the Hubbs Sea World Research Institute. The Institute conducts scientific research in the areas of marine mammal conservation, mariculture, resource management and marine ecology. Although operated independently of Sea World, its scientists work closely with Sea World staff through frequent use of the park's facilities and zoological collections. Nonharmful studies on marine mammals, including killer whales, maintained in Sea World zoological collections complement research efforts conducted in the field, and vice versa. Research in both areas is necessary for a full understanding of the biology of any species. Sea World plays an important role in the recovery of injured or diseased marine mammals through its active participation in regional stranding programs and other federal, state and local rescue and rehabilitation programs. The treatment of wildlife brought to the parks for care and rehabilitation, including endangered and threatened marine mammals, is work that Sea World visitors may observe. In this way, Sea World expands not only the knowledge of the scientific community, but the understanding and concern of the general public as well. Furthermore, the compilation of basic biological and medical information gathered through participation in fieldwork, involving beached and stranded animals, and through work conducted with marine mammals maintained at Sea World provides important data necessary for use in conservation efforts. Complementing its work in the recovery of injured or diseased animals is the role the parks play through the provision of sanctuary for endangered or threatened species, including the Florida Manatee, California Sea Otter, Kemp's Ridley and the Green Sea Turtle. 8 Sea World offers a wide variety of educational and conservation programs which contribute to the understanding and shaping of positive public attitudes about marine mammals consistent with the policies of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Furthermore, Sea World parks represent many years of expertise in, and commitment to, the rescue and rehabilitation of distressed marine mammals; significant contributions to scientific research; and ongoing collaborations with other zoological parks, universities, academic institutions, and state and federal agencies which are also engaged in educational conservation endeavors throughout the United States and the world. Sea World's unique and successful killer whale propagation program received the prestigious Edward H. Bean Award from the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (AAZPA) in 1985. Six killer whale calves currently represent the species in this successful breeding program. Other breeding programs conducted at Sea World have resulted in significant numbers of captive-born seals and sea lions, bottlenose dolphins, and Commerson's dolphins. All Sea World parks are accredited institutions of the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums. Furthermore, the parks are open to the public on a regularly scheduled basis and access is not limited or restricted other than by an admission fee. Operating schedules and fees are described in the brochures attached. Examples of some of the programs offered at Sea World for educational or conservation purposes are attached. VI. Not applicable VII. Information supplied as appropriate A. Not applicable B. 1. Not applicable 2. Not applicable 3. Not applicable 4. Transportation: The killer whales will be transported in a specially designed and constructed transport unit from Sealand of the Pacific to the U.S. government approved Sea World facility described in Section IV (C) . Mother/calf pairs will be imported together in separate transport units. Transport will be via charter aircraft and truck, in accordance with professionally accepted techniques and 9 in compliance with all applicable regulations, standards and conditions set forth, under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Animal Welfare Act and the Lacey Act. Transport is anticipated to take less than 12 hours, absent unusual circumstances. 5. Transport Supervision The animals will be transported under the direct superv1s1on of Sea World professional staff with extensive experience in the transport, medical care and management of killer whales. The names of some of these individuals are listed below. These individual may be assisted by additional qualified Sea World personnel: Brad F. Andrews Vice President/Zoological Operations 19 years of experience with marine mammals. James E. Antrim Vice President/General Curator 18 years of experience with marine mammals. w. Glenn Young Vice President/General Curator 18 years of experience with marine mammals. Thomas A. Goff Curator of Mammals 16 years of experience with marine mammals. Jack c. Pearson Curator of Mammals 30 years of experience with marine mammals. Dudley Wigdahl Curator of Mammals 16 years of experience with marine mammals. James F. McBain, D.V.M. Corporate Director of Veterinary Medicine 17 years of experience with marine mammals. Diedrich o. Beusse, D.V.M. Veterinarian Consultant 16 years of experience with marine mammals. Michael T. Walsh, D.V.M. Staff Veterinarian 7 years of experience with marine mammals. 10 Bill Hughes Vice President/General Curator 12 years of experience with marine mammals. Les Dalton, D.V.M. Staff Veterinarian 12 years of experience with marine mammals. 6. See attached letter from James F. McBain, D.V.M. c. Sea World facilities are licensed under the Animal Welfare Act. A copy of the most recent inspection report filed for each of the four parks is attached. Sea World, San Diego, California Sea World, Aurora, Ohio Sea World, Orlando, Florida Sea World, San Antonio, Texas 93-C-069 31-C-013 58-C-077 74-C-180 sea World maintains the largest killer whale display facilities in the world. (Specifications are attached.) The killer whales requested can be accommodated comfortably in the facilities described as their destination. This determination is based upon the space requirements of Section 3.104 of the specification for the Handling, Care, Treatment and Transportation of Marine Mammals (9 CFR part 3, Subpart E). D. Not applicable E. Sea World's marine mammal inventory and necropsy report are current and on file with the National Marine Fisheries Service. 2. The killer whale health programs, as well as the other marine mammal health programs practiced at Sea World are based upon a preventive medicine approach throuah the correlation of and clinical diagnostic techniques. These programs are the responsibility of en-site attending veterinarians 1 working closely with professional animal care and training staffs. The park in Florida has two full-ti:ne veterinarians and one part-time veterinarian. The California park has twc full-time while Texas employs one full-time and one part-time veterinarian. The Ohio park employs one full-time and one part-time veterinarian. Every killer whale is observed periodically throughout the day by several members of the professional animal care staff for variations in 11 appetite and activity. The information derived from daily observations is tremendously important in the prevention of illness. Sea World's prevention program includes regular physical examinations with complete laboratory evaluation of blood and other specimen samples, a balanced diet, and maintenance of a clean, safe environment. Disease prevention programs are conducted with minimum disruption to normal patterns of activity. When the occurrence of a potential disease or condition is detected, further diagnostic techniques are utilized in order to prescribe the most effective means of intervention. Every Sea World park operates fully equipped clinical laboratories. Laboratory specialists are available around the clock to analyze blood samples, perform microbiologic analysis, conduct special diagnostic procedures; i.e. urinalysis, cytology, monitor water quality and, if necessary, dispense medication prescribed by the attending veterinarian. Complete medical records are maintained to allow quick access to all laboratory test results. These laboratories not only support veterinarians in their care of Sea World animals, but in their work with beached or stranded animals. Sea World maintains radiography and endoscopy equipment for diagnostic purposes. Furthermore, as necessary, the parks access the supplemental support of outside specialists and researchers with expertise in surgery, ultrasonography, thermography, fluoroscopy, and CAT scans. Marine mammal medicine is a rapidly developing field. Sea World veterinary staff, laboratory technicians and animal care professionals are actively involved in searching for new or refined diagnostic techniques, therapeutic applications and animal husbandry practices in an effort to enhance marine mammal health. The data collection, analysis and interpretations of Sea World studies are evaluated through weekly conferences of Sea World veterinary staff and further disseminated at scientific meetings and the published literature for use by other institutions in their health programs. Each illness and mortality, as shown by recent deaths in killer whales, undergoes an in-depth investigation and evaluation, further adding to the clinical and pathological information base for this species. Preventative programs, including 12 observational techniques, medical principles and husbandry practices are continually adjusted in an attempt to alleviate similar problems which have resulted in mortalities. 13 VIII. IX. Certification B. "I hereby certify that the foregoing information is complete, true, and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that this information is submitted for the purpose of obtaining a permit under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 (16 u.s.c. 1361-1407) and regulations promulgated thereunder, and that any false statement may subject me to the criminal penalties of 18 u.s.c. 1001, or to penalties provided under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972. 11 ~ j ~ ~ Brad F. Andrews Vice President Zoological Operations Sea World, Inc. 14 Application Attachment - Section IV c Correspondence from Jim McBain, D.V.M. Application Attachment - Section IV D & F References Application Attachment - Section VII B. 6 Transport and Care Certification Application Attachment - Section VII C Killer Whale Facility Specifications USDA/APHIS Inspection Reports 15 ~ Saa , .. o l d ~ fl'U . Dr. William W. Fox, Jr. Assistant Administrator November 6, 1991 National Marine Fisheries Service United States Department of Commerce Washington, D.C. 20235 RE: Application for Public Display Dear Dr. Fox: This letter is to certify that I am a graduate veterinarian, licensed in the states of Oregon and Minnesota and in the province of British Columbia, Canada. I am knowledgeable in the field of marine mammal medicine and care. I further certify that the professional veterinary staff has reviewed the facilities and methods for the transport and care of the killer whales (Orcinus orca) referred to in this permit application. The methods and facilities described will adequately provide for the well-being of the killer whales. JFM/ldf Sea World, Inc. 7007 Sea World Drive Orlando, FL 32821-8097 (407) 351-3600 FAX (407) 345-5397 M Busch Entertainment lliiiJ Corporation ONE OF THE ANHEUSER BUSCH COMPANIES Sincerely, James F. McBain, D.V.M. Corporate Director of Veterinary Medicine SEA WORLD OF FLORIDA - Habitat comprised of interconnecting pools. Habitat exceeds MHO. Display and Breeding Pools Pool 1 Pool 2 Pool 3 Pool 4 Two Med Pools each Depth - 34 ft. Volume - 2 1 692 1 800 gallons (3601000 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 10 1 000 sq. ft. MHD - individual pools exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 15 ft. Volume - 436 1 682 gallons (581379 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 3 1 892 sq. ft. MHD - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 15 ft. Volume - 436 1 682 gallons (581379 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 3 1 892 sq. ft. MHO - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 15 ft. Volume - 706 1 860 gallons ( 9 4 1 50 0 CU ft ) Surface Area - 6 1 300 sq. ft. MHO - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 12 ft. Volume - 98 1 511 gallons ( 13 1 169 CU ft ) surface Area - 878 sq. ft. MHD - not required As of November 1 1 1991 - Killer whales presently housed = 4 17 SEA WORLD OF CALIFORNIA - Habitat comprised of interconnecting pools. Habitat exceeds MHD. Display and Breeding Pools Pool 1 Pool 2 Pool 3 Med Pool Depth - 35 ft. Volume - 2,491,400 gallons (333,074 cut. ft.) surface Area - 10,000 sq. ft. MHD - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 15 ft. Volume - 1,058,500 gallons (141,510 cu. ft.) surface Area - 9,000 sq. ft. MHD - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 15 ft. Volume - 1,058,500 gallons ( 141 1 51 0 CU ft ) Surface Area - 9,000 sq. ft. MHD - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 8 ft. Volume- 67,600 gallons (9,037 cu. ft.) surface Area - 1,000 sq. ft. MHD - not required As of November 1, 1991 - Killer whales presently housed = 3 18 SEA WORLD OF OHIO - Habitat comprised of interconnecting pools. Habitat exceeds MHO. Display and Breeding Pools Pool 1 Pool 2 Depth - 26 ft. Volume - 511,105 gallons (68,329 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 2,728 cu. ft. MHO - individual pool 45 ft. Depth - 15 ft. Volume- 327,943 gallons ( 4 3 , 8 4 2 cu . ft . ) surface Area - 3000 sq. ft. MHO - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Transfer - Connecting - Med Pools Pool 3 Pool 4 Depth - 8 ft. Volume - 81,049 gallons (9, 991 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 1,268 sq. ft. MHO - not required Depth - 9 ft. Volume - 66,250 gallons (8, 660 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 961.6 sq. ft. MHO - not required As of November 1, 1991 - Killer whales presently housed = 2 19 SEA WORLD OF TEXAS - Habitat comprised of interconnecting pools. Habitat exceeds MHD. Display and Breeding Pools Pool 1 Pool 2 Pool 3 Med Pool Depth - 35 ft. Volume - 2,110,000 gallons (282,085 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 11,215 sq. ft. MHD - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 16 ft. 9 inches Volume - 998,000 gallons (133,422 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 8,122 sq. ft. MHD - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 16 ft. 9 inches Volume - 998,000 gallons (133,422 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 8,122 sq. ft. MHD - individual pool exceeds 48 ft. Depth - 10 ft. Volume - 60,000 gallons (8,021 cu. ft.) Surface Area - 800 sq. ft. MHD - not required As of November 1, 1991 - Killer whales presently housed = 3 20 References: Asper, E.D. 1975. Techniques of live capture of smaller cetacea. J. Fish. Res. Board Can., 32 (7): 1191-1196. Christensen, I. 1984. Growth and reproduction for killer whales, Orcinus orca, in Norwegian coastal waters. Rep. int. Whal. Commn., Special Issue 6, pp 253-258. Christensen, I. 1988. Distribution, movements and abundance of killer whales Orcinus orca in Norwegian coastal waters, 1982- 1987, based on questionnaire surveys. Rit Fiskideildar, 11:79-88. Evans, P.G.H. 1988. Killer whales Orcinus orca in British and Irish waters. Rit Fiskideildar, 11:42-54. Gunlaugsson, s. and J. Sigurjonsson. 1988. NAS-1987: Estimation of abundance of large cetaceans from observations made abroad Icelandic and Faroese survey vessels. Presented to the IWC Scientific Committee, May 1988. Lyrholm, T., s. Leatherwood and J. Sigurjonsson. 1987. Photoidentification of killer whales Orcinus orca off Iceland, October 1985. Cetology, 52:1-14. Sigurjonsson, J. 1984. Killer whale census off Iceland during October 1982. Rep. int. Whal. Commn, 34:609-612. Sigurjonsson, J. and S. Leatherwood (Eds.). 1988. North Atlantic Killer Whales. Rit Fiskideildar, 11:1-316. Sigurjonsson, J .T. Lyrholm, s. Leatherwood, E. Jonsson and G. Vikingsson. 1988. Photoidentification of killer whales, Orcinus orca, off Iceland, 1981 through 1986. Rit Fiskideildar, 11:99-114. 21 ~ . I WOrld Application Attachment - Section IV.C. Dr. William w. Fox, Jr. Assistant Administrator November 6, 1991 National Marine Fisheries Service United States Department of Commerce Washington, D.C. 20235 RE: Sealand Killer Whale Facility Dear Dr. Fox: The killer whales at the Sealand park in Victoria, British Columbia are maintained in a small main pool that is constructed of nylon net suspended from floating dock structures. This enclosure measures approximately 100' x 70'. The sides of the enclosure are tied to pipes all the way around the perimeter. The depth of the enclosure at the perimeter is approximately 20', while the depth at the center of the enclosure can be 40 1 or less at low tide. Attached to the main pool is a small medical pool which measures 31'1 x 23'w x 12'd. The walls of the pool are steel, and the bottom of the pool is fibergrate. The only function of the pool other than for medical procedures is short-term holding (hours not days). The facility is moored at Oak Bay Marina. The two female killer whales residing at Sealand appear pregnant based on serum progesterone levels. One of the females (Haida) had a low progesterone on 519190 and an elevated proges- terone on 6 I 13 I 9 0. The progesterones on Haida have remained elevated from that time to the present. The other female (Nootka) had a low progesterone on 8110190 with a high on 1011190, which has remained elevated to the present. Based on conception occurring between the last low and the first high progesterone, and a 17- month gestation period, Haida would be expected to calve in November 1991, while Nootka would be expected to calve in February 1992. Sea World, Inc. 7007 Sea World Drive Orlando, FL 32821-8097 (407) 351-3600 FAX (407) 345-5397 ra Busch Entertainment liil Corporation ONE OF THE ANHEUSER-BUSCH COMPANIES Dr. William W. Fox, Jr. November 6, 1991 page two The impending births make it desirable to remove the male killer whale from the Sea land facility as soon as possible to eliminate his potential interference in the birth, bonding or nursing process. For example, a male killer whale at Vancouver Aquarium raked a calf during the birth process. This did not directly lead to the calf's death three weeks later, but incidents of this type should be avoided, if possible, by removing the male from the calving pool. At Sea World, male killer whales are prevented from being in the same pool with pregnant whales approaching birth. There is ample evidence that male killer whales and dolphins can interfere with the nursing and bonding process. The main problem posed by females to a birthing whale is the stealing of calves, which has been observed numerous times with dolphins and has been experienced with killer whales. Because of this potential problem, Sea World routinely separates the birthing female from the other whales during the birthing and bonding process. The theft of calves by nonparturient females has been experienced with dolphins as well as killer whales. The potential for raking is less significant. These episodes are most likely if the birthing female is subordinate to the non-birthing female. Haida is dominate over the other female, so one would not expect Nootka to interfere with Haida. If Haida fails to produce a viable calf, she could be a problem for the subordinate female, Nootka, during the birth process. This possibility would lead to the conclusion that it would enhance Nootka's chance of success if Haida was moved from Sealand prior to February 1991. This obviously would be precluded if Haida calved successfully. It would be unwise to move her and her calf before the calf is one year of age. However, I would not expect Haida to be a problem for Nootka if Haida is nursing a calf at the time Nootka gives birth. If Nootka's birth fails, she could remain until Haida and her calf were ready for transport. If Nootka has a successful calving, she and her offspring should not be transported until the calf is at least one year of age. JFM/ldf Sincerely, Or//L; James F. McBain, D.V.M. Corporate Director of Veterinary Medicine ; 0. //1 ' / 'lr ?fi I A/ .-.' F: r._ .. J! t:: l/:-i,; I 4/ /' /L lfi /V II. h"-$ A PIIOQRAiol 0# YHI..-JIY MED4CAL CARL ANO iiJ'IHAHASIA SEW PLANNE 0 WITH AYYlNOINO WTEAINAI\LA>I AS f\CQUIRED BY 6EC'IIOIIS 2.33 & 2.40 WAmeN $1,11WmEO TO THE APHIS, IlEAC SCTOR 5UI'ffi\IIGOR1 0 Voo .lK!. Nu (If "NO", tiWI .M:J/ /2" &I///'(=/) --- ____ __:_ _____ _ ... o. t.;O&,;!'I A. NO CAYS ON VS IIS 'J"ttl QATa: i,H1.:, THIS rt: '; < ...
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.. ____________________________________________ .,........,_,;----- . ' , I .. , . I - I Brad F. Andrews Vice President/Zoological Operations Sea World, Inc. 7007 Sea World Drive Orlando, FL 32821-8097 Dear Mr. Andrews: "e have completed our initial review of the applications submitted by Sea World, Inc. for permits to import up to six killer whales (Orcinus orca) from Canada. Concerning the permit application for importation of the single juvenile killer whale from Marineland of Canada, Inc. in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada (P2X), we have determined the application complete and are ready to forward the notice of receipt and opportunity for public comment to the Federal Register, as required under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, as amended. Before we can determine that the other permit application is complete, i.g., for importation of up to five killer whales from Sealand of the Pacific, Ltd., Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (P2W), some additional information is needed. In this regard, please provide the following information: A statement regarding responsibility for: (1) the care and maintenance of the subject killer whales prior to their importation, and (2) the decision regarding each animal's readiness for importation. In this regard, please also provide an update concerning the condition of Haida, who had been expected to deliver a calf in November; A detailed description of the transport method (i.g., including a detailed description of the transport enclosure(s)jequipment to be used and any special care required), logistics, and any other special arrangements for importation/transport of the motherjcalf pairs; A description of the manner in which the imported killer whales will be isolated/quarantined upon arrival at Sea World facilities, and the manner ir which .. t!'lese _a_rimals will . __ ....... ,. _ ---- hoiciing ___ -- .. ..,.. - whales presently on public display; and A discussion of Sea World's consideration of the tragic incident at Sealand of the Pacific in which a trainer drowned in the killer whale enclosure, and what actions Sea World has taken or will take to prevent a recurrence both prior to ...., .. .... '\ ' ' . - : r -o,.-"'...;.,.._., ...... - ... .-...... . 2 import. :.!nd at Sea \iorld following importation. discussion should 1nclude: the factors which Sealano of the Pacific, the involved Canadian governmental agencies, and Sea World believe were involved in the incident (g.g., please submit copies of reports, findings, etc. that are otherwise available to the public); and the recommendations made by each of these entities. Following our review of this and determination that it is sufficient, a notice equivalent to that described above for P2X will also be readied, and both notices will be forwarded for publication in the Federal Register. Your quick response will 3ssist us in our effort to process your applications. Please contact us at 301/713-2289 {NEW NUMBER) if you have any questions. .. .. ,... Sincerely, Ann D. Terbush Chief, Permits Division Office of Prot"ected Resources -.,.-?.'-"'- ;..
Sea WOrld Anne D. Terbush Chief, Permits Division Office of Protected Resources NOAA/NMFS Silver Spring, MD 20910 Dear Ms. Terbush: We have received your lette:r of December 17, l?'Jl :requesti:1g additional information regarding Sea World's to import killer whales from Sealand of the Pacific ("Sealand"). Since Sea World's application was filed on November 7, 1991 in a complete state and in accordance the NMFS requirements and application instructions, we understand the supplementary information requested is to clarify certain matters for 1. Care and maintenance of the whales orior to imoo:rtation. The animals will continue to be owned by Sealand until the import permit is granted. Responsibility for the animals prior to impor't rests with Sea land. However, Sea land is consulting with Sea World on appropriate care and maintenance 2. Decision regarding each animal's readiness :or importation. As described in Section IV. A. of our application, importation will be conducted in a manner prescribec by Sea World veterinary staff. The timing of the transport will be based upon the medical opinion of veterinarians that the animals are in good health and that the move will not create any risk to their healt"h or well being. The determination regarding their health will he made by a Sea t'lorld veterinarian experienced i;-1 physicn.l examination and interpretation of cetacean laboratory results. as described in Section VII. B. 4. of the application, animals will be transported under the direct supervision of the Sea ld professional staff referenced. .l\ veter ir-.. ::1r i;u: Hi 11 accompany the animals at all times dJring Sea World. Inc. 7007 Sea World Drive Orlando, FL 32821-8097 (407) 351-3600 FAX (407) 345-5397 01 Busch Entertainment . :__" Corporation As 1n Section IV. A. C., Haida appearej to he pregnant. appa re::. t con1i-: ion 1vas further desc:c i bed i:1 correspondence from Jim attached to the application as Section IV. C. Haida gave to a li'Je vigorous calf on December 24, 1991, at ap_?roximately 12:45 _?.m. PST. NMFS was notified of the birth an "lour of C:elivery. 4. Tra;1soort method. Sea World has been in the development of successful transport techniques for marine mammals. (Joseph, Asper and Antrim, 1991). Killer whales have been transported successfully by Sea World since 1965 and transport of this nature is not without precedent. Numerous killer whales of the size the juvenile can be expected to reach after 12 months of age have been successfully collected and transported by Sea Norld and others in years past. As described in Section VII. B. 4. and 5., the killer whales will be transported in specially designed and constructed transport units. Transport will be via charter aircraft and truck in, accordance with professionally accepted techniques and in compliance with all applicable regulations, standards and conditions set forth under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Animal Welfare Act and the Lacey Act. Transport is anticipated to take less than 12 'hours.. absent unusual circumstances. The transport procedures were reviewed and certified as appropriate in a letter from Dr. McBain attached to the application. The protocol for moving cow/calf pairs will be the same as described in the The co1v and her calf will be moved at the same time to the same destination in individual transport units sized appropriately for each animal. The transport units will be kept as close together' as safe-and practical throughout the traasport. The .:.nimals will be transpotted under the direct supervision of the Sea World professional staff referenced in the application. A veterinarian will accompany the animals at all times during the move. We have attached for your consideratio'1 illustrations depict our transport units. Reference -- CRC Handbook of Marine Mammal Medicine: Health, Disease, and Rehabilitation: Leslie A. Dierauf, V.M.D., CRC Press Boston: 1990 u e c '2 r:1 e r 3 r) ' =- 0 ' l ?age 3 5. Accli'"'latiot1 into SeCJ. l:orL'i collection. The ani:1als '>Jeing complete medi.c;:;.l histories. Thes2 animals :tave no ap2arent medical c0ncition requiring quarantine upon arrival. Sea personnel who have ex a mined the animals believe t:1e animals are behaviorally normal. The animals will be visually and physic<1.lly separated from the resident Sea World killer whales in one of the breeding and research pools specified as attachments to Section VII. C. Behavioral Ol)servation and appropriate medical evaluation will guide the integration of animals into resident groups. The Sealand animals will not be allowed to associate with the resident Sea Norld animals if there are any signs of disease or incompatible behavior. After the veterinary and training staff have concluded the Sealand animals are ready to associate with the resident animals, the animals will be allowed to enter the main pool. Should any conflict develop other than the expected behavior associated with establishing relative dominance wit}lin the group, Sea Norld 's resident animals will be called to separate areas using the acoustic signals which t!1e animals have been trained to folloVT. 6. Sea World's Employee Training and Safety Program. In 1987, Sea World commenced a detailed review of its employee training and safety procedures. Thereafter, Sea 'i7orld implemented an enhanced employee training and safety program. Since implementing this program, there have been no accidents involving killer whales at Sea lvorld facilities. Although we are generally familiar with the circumstances surrounding the accidental death of a trainer in the killer whale pool at Sealand on February 20, 1991, we do not have any of Sealand's records or reports on this matter. Sea World urges NMFS to request whatever documents NMFS-bel_ieves necessary for NMFS' from the appropriate of Sealdnd and the Government of Canada. However, we believe the accident was unique to Sealand and was due to the unfortunate combination of a poor pool design which prohibited exit from the water, inadequate energency life saving unaccustomed to the presence of people in the water. Sea World understands the historical interest regarding the incident at Sealand, but Sea vlorld believes its present employee training and safety program should be judged on its merits by comparison to current industry standards, particularly since the situation at Sealand is so different fr-om that .vhich exists at S':'a vorld. For example, Sea animals ar-e all and are accustomed to with trainers and staff. Sealand's animals are untraineJ ani will be managed initially by Sea World as untrained animals. Sea World's facilities are structurally di:ferent from Sealand's facility in significant respects. At Sea World, safety for bot"h employees and killer whales 13 paramount in all our work. Please let us know if we can be of further assistance 1n expediting your processing of this application. Very truly yours, r)/Y'd Brad F. Andrews ) Vice President Zoological Operations Sea lvor ld, Inc. :,__ - z ::::> 1-- ii: 3: --Q Ow ~ a . . ~ ~ ~ . ~ ~ ~ ~ W::> a3 ~ u IO 'J.) 3:ffi a: w .....J .....J :::::: c: 0 a.. 0... :::> en c:: w I C) w c:: en w ::2'-' <w c:w !,;..- .(/) (f) UJ >- UJ CJ z ~ r ; : ...J UJ z < a: (.) !-- z :::J !-- -- 0::: _.Ow o..- :... (.f)>
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"' r:. Mr. Brad F. Andrews Vice President Zoological Operations Sea World, Inc. 7007 Sea World Drive Orlando, Florida 32821-8097 Dear Mr. Andrews: JAN I 4 1992 We have completed our review of the application information submitted in your letter of December 30, 1991. With the addition of this information, we have determined the applications to be complete sufficient to initiate the public comment phase of the permit review process. Consequently, enclosed are copies of two notices which were published today in the Federal Register notifying the public of Sea World's applications and initiating the 30-day comment period. Please review these notices and let us know if any of the information is in error. Although your letter of December 30, 1991, provided additional information sufficient to initiate the public comment phase of the permit process, your response to our request for additional information did not provide sufficient information on which to base a decision to issue a public display permit. In short, will need additional information on a few of the issues raised in our letter of December 17, 1991, before such a permit decision can be made. In this regard, please provide additional information on the following: 1. Care and maintenance of the whales prior to importation. This issue is of immediate concern regarding the killer whales helct at the Sealand facility, the importation of Tillikum for medical treatment otherwise unavailable and in consideration of the circumstances which precipitated that emergency (see letter to you from Nancy Foster dated January 8, concernina the emeraency authorization tor the import o: What are SealandjSea World's contingency plans if there are problems with the composition/interactive behavior of these animals, especially leading up to or following the birth of the < .... 2 calves - one now born and the other birth expected soon? Because long-term holding in the small "medical" pool at Sealand is not an option, what alternative arrangements have been made to address these potential problems? What are MarinelandjSea World's contingency plans involving the juvenile male killer whale to be imported if such problems occur at the Marineland of Canada facility in Ontario? 2. Discussion of Sea World's consideration of the tragic incident at Sealand of the Pacific in which a trainer drowned in the killer whale enclosure .... [including] the factors which Sealand of the Pacific, the involved Canadian governmental agencies, and Sea World believe were involved in the incident please submit copies of reports, findings, etc. that are otherwise available to the public); and the recommendations made by each of these entities. (See NMFS request for additional information dated December 17, 1991.) The information provided on this subject in your letter of December 30, 1991, was a general response in which you stated Sea World's position on employee training and safety, explained that the Sealand animals will be managed initially as untrained animals, and stated that Sea World does not have any of Sealand's records or reports on this matter. This information is helpful in our consideration of your application. However, this incident is a significant enough event and, as a result, issue arising out of the past care and maintenance of these killer whales that it should be thoroughly addressed by Sea World prior to issuance of a permit for their importation for purposes of public display. In this regard, Sea World should obtain and closely examine all relevant reports and documentation resulting from the incident; consider the recommendations which were made and whether and how they may apply to Sea World's facilities, animal care and training practices, and trainerjanimal interactions policies and procedures; and provide, for NMFS review, Sea World's position regarding each such report and recommendation, and, where applicable, the manner in which each will be addressed in the care and maintenance of these killer whales at Sea World following their proposed 3. A description of the manner in which the imported killer whales will be isolated/quarantined upon arrival at Sea World : :_ In your December 30, 1991, response, you stated that these animals have complete medical histories, are behaviorally normal, and that they will be visually and physically separated from the resident Sea World killer whales pending behavioral observation and medical evaluation. However, you also state that, "These animals have no apparent medical condition requiring quarantine upon arrival." Please clarify the meaning of this statement. is concerned that the animals to be imported be initially isolated in a manner sufficient to prevent transmission of any communicable disease pending an adequate period of medical On the basis of periodic consultation with officials of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, we have generally interpreted such initial isolation procedures to reasonably include separate water circulations systems. If it is not the intent of Sea World to maintain these animals initially after import in a manner isolated from the other killer whales presently held at Sea World's facilities, please explain why you believe such isolation is not necessary or required to protect the health and welfare of both the animals to be imported and those now at Sea World's facilities. A response which addresses thoroughly each issue above will assist us in our effort to process your permit applications. Please contact us at 301/713-2289 (NEW PHONE NUMBER) if you have any questions. Division of Protected Resources Enclosures ~ e a WOrld February 14, 1992 Ann D. Terbush Chief, Permits Division Office of Protected Resources and Habitat Programs National Marine Fisheries Service 1335 East West Highway, Room 7324 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 Dear Ms. Terbush: This letter responds to your January 14, 1992 letter requesting additional information on three issues relating to our pending applications to import killer whales. We believe the following information is responsive to your letter. care and Maintenance of the Whales Prior to Importation With respect to the whales of Sealand, we previously advised you of the February 4, 1992 birth of a calf to Nootka. We are cautiously optimistic about the condition of the new calf and the overall situation at Sealand. Both mother/calf pairs appear healthy and, currently, there is no indication of interference from either pair. As we have previously explained, after reaching agreement with Sealand in mid-October on the potential acquisition of the animals, the management options were severely limited. Soon thereafter, on November 1, 1991, we met with NMFS staff and described the circumstances which ultimately precipitated the emergency import of Tilikum. After being advised by NMFS on November 1 that no emergency existed and that no options were available to address the potential problems we described, we submitted our permit application on November 7, 1991 and asked for prompt action to avert any possible emergency. After the successful birth of Haidas calf on December 24, 1991, it was necessary to expedite the removal of Tilikum from the facility for the reasons we had previously explained. This was, and is, the only appropriate contingency plan for dealing Sea World, Inc. 7007 Sea World Drive Orlando, FL 32821-8097 (407) 351-3600 FAX ( 407) 345-5397 1M! Busch Entertainment llal Corporation ONE OF THE ANHEUSER-BUSCH COMPANIES Ann D. Terbush February 14, 1992 Page 2 with the mother/calf pair(s) at Sealand. Reasonable alternative arrangements were not, and are not, available. Given the advanced stages of the potential pregnancies, we would not have moved the females even if alternative housing existed. We stated in our application: [I]f Haida gives birth successfully, she and her calf would be imported to Sea World of Florida not sooner than 12 months after the birth, and more likely in early 1993. If Haida, who is carrying her first calf, is unsuccessful, she may remain in Canada with Nootka for companionship until import to Sea World of Florida when Nootka and/or Nootka's calf (if Nootka gives birth successfully) are imported to Sea World of Texas . unless compatibility problems require an earlier import. If Nootka gives birth successfully, she and her calf would be imported to Sea World of Texas not sooner than 12 months after the birth, and more likely in the early summer of 1993. If Nootka, who is also carrying her first calf, is unsuccessful, she may remain in Canada with Haida and/or Haida's calf (if Haida gives birth successfully) .. unless compatibility problems require an earlier import. In a letter attached to the application, Dr. Jim McBain stated: Haida is dominant over the other female, so one would not expect Nootka to interfere with Haida. If Haida fails to produce a viable calf, she could be a problem for the subordinate female, Nootka, during the birth process. This possibility would lead to the conclusion that it would enhance Nootka's chance of success if Haida was moved from Sealand prior to February 1992. This obviously would be precluded if Haida calved successfully. It would be unwise to move her and her calf before the calf is one year of age. However, I would not expect Haida to be a problem for Nootka if Haida is nursing a calf at the time Nootka gives birth. If Nootka's birth fails, she could remain until Ann D. Terbush February 14, 1992 Page 3 Haida and her calf were ready for transport. If Nootka has a successful calving, she and her offspring should not be transported until the calf is at least one year of age. We believe we have considered and described in our application every reasonable option for managing the difficult situation at Sealand. Given the position taken by NMFS in its cover letter to the cooperative agreement with Sea World dated January 8, 1992, we are requesting that NMFS be prepared to take immediate action in the event (l) Haida loses her calf and interferes with Nootka's bonding process or (2) Nootka is unsuccessful in rearing a viable calf and begins to interfere with Haida's nursing of her calf. If either event arises, the female interfering with an established mother/calf pair should be immediately removed. Our application submitted on November 7, 1991 for the import of a juvenile captive-born male from Marineland was submitted as the solution to the potential compatibility problems at Marineland. Therefore, we requested and expect a decision on this request within the time frame necessary to provide for the health and welfare of this animal. Discussion of Sea World's Consideration of the Incident at Sealand of the Pacific in Which a Trainer Drowned in the Killer Whale Enclosure We have reviewed the recommendations of the Workers Compensation Board-Employer's Accident Investigation Report and Sealand's policy statements issued in response to various reports and recommendations. This review confirms the determination stated in our letter of December 30, 1991 that the reports and recommendations made regarding the incident of Sealand are unique to the configuration and operation of the Sealand facility, or they address fundamental trainer and public safety procedures which have been in effect at Sea World for several years. Furthermore, the documents we have reviewed do not identify any behavioral characteristics or problems unique to Tilikum or the other killer whales at Sealand which require special consideration. As stated in our letter of December 30, 1991, Sea World professional staff have been actively observing all the whales since November 7, 1991. These observations confirm that the animals are behaviorally normal. Thus, no special actions are needed to augment regular Sea World procedures.
Ann D. Terbush February 14, 1992 Page 4 the Manner in Which the Im orted Killer Whales Quarantined Upon Arrival at Sea World As described in our letter of December 30, 1991, the animals to be imported have complete medical histories. Based on these histories and current observations, the animals are in good health and there is no apparent medical condition requiring quarantine. Therefore, the quarantine of the animals under the definition of "isolation" as set forth in the applicable APHIS regulations, 9 C.F.R. 1.1, is not necessary or required to protect the health and welfare of either the animals to be imported or the resident Sea World animals. We believe this responds to your January 14 letter and we urge prompt and favorable action on Sea World's pending permit applications. Sincerely, Vice President Zoological Operations . '
November 6, 1992 Dr. Nancy Foster Director, Office of Protected Resources National Marine Fisheries Service 1335 East-West Highway, Room 8268 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 Re: Permit No. 774 Dear Dr. Foster: Brad Andrews Vice President Zoological Operations This letter is our notification of intent to Permit No. 744 to import the three killer whales from Sealand of the Pacific between December 24, 1992, and January 31, 1993, depending upon the availability of the proper charter aircraft. Transportation and Maintenance of the Animals Condition B (1) (c) requests information on the plans and facilities for transportation and maintenance during transport. In transporting these animals, we will follow the procedures detailed in section VII. B. 4. and 5 and attachments to the applicatiOJ) submitted on November 7, 1991 and in the supplemental discussion of these procedures provided in our letters to you dated Decembei 30, 1991 and February 14, 1992. The procedures described above are i dent i ca 1 to those utili zed in the April 17, 1992 import of the k i 11 er wha 1 e, Sp 1 ash, transferred under Permit No. 733, and the January 9, 1991 emergency import of Ti 1 i kum, transferred under Agreement No. 1Q. These imports were accomplished without incident and without adverse impact on the animals. Sea World, Inc. 7007 Sea World Drive Orlando, FL 32821-8097 (407) 363-2661 FAX ( 407) 345-5397 a Busch Entertainment MJ Corporation ONE OF THE ANHEUSER BUSCH COMPANIES Dr. Nancy Foster November 6, 1992 Page Two In addition, the transport and maintenance of killer whales by Sea World complies with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's regulations and standards "Specifications for the Humane Handling, Care, Treatment and Transportation of Marine Mammals." Specifically, the animals will be transferred from Sealand using the following procedure. The three animals will leave the Sealand facility together via charter truck to charter aircraft. Each animal will be transported in individual units sized appropriately and designed for comfort during the transport. Illustrations of our transport units were supplied as an attachment to our letter of December 30, 1991. The animals will be transported under the direction of a team of Sea World professional staff. A veterinarian will accompany the animals at all times during the transport. The facilities and methods for the transport and care of these animals were reviewed and certified as adequate on behalf of our veterinary staff by Dr. J. McBain as an attachment to our application. As noted above, these procedures are identical to those used to import Tilikum and Splash. The animals will be maintained by Sea World Inc. Haida and her calf will arrive at Sea World of Texas on the first leg of the transport and will remain there. The transit time will be approximately eight hours. The flight will continue with Nootka going to Sea World of Florida. That transit time will be approximately four hours. The total transport should not exceed 12 hours absent unusual circumstances. The placement of the animals has been changed since the application was originally submitted on November 7, 1991. Since submitting the application, we have determined from observations of all the animals involved that social compatibility will most likely be achieved with the animals going to the respective parks as indicated above. Medical Determinations Condition B (1) (c) appears to require that the importation plan include a determination that the animals are ready for transport and a determination, to the extent pract i cab 1 e, that lactation/nursing has ceased and the calf has been weaned. At the time the transport is arranged, we will determine, to the extent Dr. Nancy Foster November 6, 1992 Page Three practicable, that lactation/nursing has ceased and the killer whale calf has been weaned. This will be accomplished by comparing the observed food consumption and absence of nursing of the calf with similar behavior of the six other killer whales that have been successfully weaned at Sea World parks. With respect to each animal's fitness for transport, at this time, each killer whale is in apparent good he a 1 th. At the time of transport, fitness for transport will be determined using standard laboratory and behavioral evaluations. A health certificate will be issued for each animal prior to the transport. Although Condition B (1) (c), read literally, would require that these medical determinations be made thirty days in advance as part of the importation plan, such determinations are premature thirty days in advance. Responsible veterinary practice requires that each of the medical determinations provided for in Condition B (1) (c) be made as close to transport as possible so that the greatest amount of data is available and that the data on these animals' condition is the most current relative to the time of transport. Assumption of Responsibility Condition B (1) (c) requests a statement of when Sea World will assume sole responsibility for the care and maintenance of the killer whales. Sea World will assume this responsibility as the animals are lifted from the water to be placed in the transport units. Responsibility for the animals prior to the import rests with Sealand. However, Sealand is consulting with Sea World on appropriate care and maintenance procedures. Conclusion Sea World's importation procedures are fully adequate to provide for the health and well-being of the killer whales to be imported from Sealand. We believe that has been established by the successful transport of other killer whales using identical transportation methods and identical procedures for determining the animals' medical fitness for transport. . Dr. Nancy Foster November 6, 1992 Page Four If you have any questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to call. Your timely approval of this plan will facilitate the progress of the importation. Sincerely, ~ v ~ Brad Andrews Vice President Zoological Operations jas APPLICATION FILE COVER SHEET File No: P2W Permit No: Action Individual: AJ/PHB Name of Applicant: SEA WORLD INC 7007 SEA WORLD DRIVE ORLANDO, FL 32821-8097 Primary Contact: ANDREWS, MR BRAD Phone: 407-363-2155 Abstract: TO IMPORT TWO (2} ADULT FEMALE KILLER WHALES (ORCINUS ORCA} AND ONE (1} ADULT MALE KILLER WHALE FROM SEALAND OF THE PACIFIC IN CANADA FOR PUBLIC DISPLAY. THIS REQUEST INCLUDES AUTHORIZATION FOR PROGENY OF THE FEMALE WHALES, WHICH APPEAR PREGNANT, TO BE IMPORTED WITH THEIR MOTHERS AT A TIME AT LEAST 12 MONTHS OF AGE AND AS PRESCRIBED BY SEA WORLD VETERINARY STAFF. NMFS Reviewers Comments Expected? Comments Received F /NER . ..... FISER . ............ . F I SWR F /NWR F I AKR ..... Date of Application Date Received Additional Information Requested Date Complete FR Notice of Receipt Close of Comment Period MMC Comments Received NO YES NO NO NO 11/06/91 11/07/91 Dates of Permit Modifications: Dates of Permit Authorizations: Section 7 Signed Application Returned Application Withdrawn Permit Issued/Denied Expiration Date Extended to Extended to Extended to NOTE: Please run this report each time there is an action on the Permit.