Lolita Update #81
Seaquarium closed
October 25, 2005

Dear Friends of Lolita~

This news just arrived. With winds clocked at 116 mph on Key Biscayne, there may have been far more damage than was reported. We are especially concerned about the rusting metal awning that extends over the whale stadium. We are trying to determine exactly what happened, which is difficult because no doubt the Seaquarium is locked down and reporters are not allowed inside.

This is when we need responsible officials to investigate the park, shut this obsolete roadside attraction down completely, rescue Lolita and the dolphins and other animals from the danger they are in at this inadequate facility, and allow Lolita to return to her home waters.

We will keep you informed about further developments. Thanks for caring about Lolita.

Seaquarium closed indefinitely (Note: Link no longer exists.)
Miami Herald
Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2005

Biscayne Bay poured over the seawall at the Miami Seaquarium during Monday's hurricane and the marine park expects to be closed for weeks if not months.

None of the park's dolphins, sea lions, manatees, and other animals -- including Lolita, the killer whale -- was injured and none escaped when Wilma's sea surge overflowed into the park, said Eric Eimstad, vice president of sales.

The water did pour into the Flipper's Lagoon dolphin tank, he said, but had no effect on the dolphins that live there.

He declined to offer details on the extent of the Virginia Key park's damage or speculate when it would reopen.

Much is going on to help bring Lolita home and to inform and advocate for her and her family Please consider a tax-deductible contribution to help Orca Network continue this work. Thank you!