Tilikum, the largest orca in captivity, was made famous by the documentary “Blackfish” which shook the world when it was released in 2013. This captivating story not only captured the hearts of animal lovers but also helped to spread awareness about the ethical issues surrounding animal captivity. Teaching students about Tilikum’s life and struggles allows them to better understand the complexities of animal welfare and our responsibility as humans.
The Life of Tilikum
Tilikum was captured off the coast of Iceland in 1983 at just two years old. He was then brought to an Icelandic marine park before being moved to Sealand in British Columbia, Canada. It was here that he first showed signs of aggression, leading to the death of a young marine biology student who fell into his enclosure. With the park soon closing due to bankruptcy, Tilikum was transferred to SeaWorld Orlando in 1992.
Throughout his time at SeaWorld, Tilikum became infamous for his role in fatal incidents involving trainers – two within SeaWorld and one at Sealand. Despite his aggressive behavior, Tilikum remained on display for another decade until his death in 2017 from a respiratory illness.
Introducing Tilikum to Students
Before showing “Blackfish” or discussing any details about Tilikum’s life with students, it is recommended that educators have a conversation about ethics and animal welfare in general. Here are some points that can be raised:
1. What responsibilities do we have towards animals?
2. How should animals be treated in captivity?
3. Are there any ethical concerns surrounding animals being used for entertainment?
4. Can any positive change come from studying captive animals, and if so, do they outweigh the negative effects?
Watching “Blackfish” or discussing materials about Tilikum
After establishing an understanding of animal welfare and ethics, educators can introduce the students to “Blackfish” or relevant materials about Tilikum’s life. The documentary is available via various streaming platforms and is an excellent resource for older students.
Guiding Questions for Discussion after watching “Blackfish”:
1. How were you affected by Tilikum’s story?
2. Why do you think Tilikum became aggressive in captivity?
3. Can you identify any ethical issues concerning Tilikum’s life and captivity?
4. What should have been done differently in Tilikum’s case?
5. How might orcas in the wild behave differently from those in captivity?
After the discussion
Learning about Tilikum’s story helps students better understand the complexities of animal welfare and captivity. It is essential to give students an opportunity to reflect on their own beliefs about animals and encourage open discussion and analysis.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Tilikum not only raises awareness of ethical concerns surrounding animal captivity but also allows them to develop empathy, compassion, and critical thinking skills. Instilling these values in future generations will contribute significantly to the development of a more responsible and compassionate society that upholds the best interests of animals like Tilikum.
