On the 24th of February 2010, a captive orca named Tilikum attacked and killed his trainer. After a 27 minute delay, a call was placed to the Orange County Sheriff's Office. 

911 call from SeaWorld: "A Whale Has Eaten One of the Trainers"

On 24 Feb 2010 Freddy Herrera states to an investigator that it appeared Tilikum pulled Dawn Brancheau into the water by her left arm. This contradicted SeaWorld's repeated statement that he grabbed her ponytail. An arm grab seems more intentional. 

SeaWorld Security Guard Freddy Herrera Talks to Police Regarding the Death at SeaWorld

Journalist Tim Zimmermann is interviewed by Sam Simon regarding the teeth drilling of captive killer whales as well as the stress of captivity. The two also talk about the low paying job of a killer whale trainer as well as David Kirby's book, Death at SeaWorld. This is a must hear video! 

Radio: Tim Zimmermann talks Teeth Drilling & Low Trainer Pay @ SeaWorld with host Sam Simon

Host Tom Ashbrook of NPR's Onpoint Radio interviews Outside Magazine's Tim Zimmermann as well as scientist Kenneth Balcomb, of Orca Survey. Ken is one of the world's leading experts on  killer whales. This is the final ten minutes of a 40 minute interview available at NPR, online. 

Tom Ashbrook of NPR's ONPOINT speaks with TZ & orca scientist Ken Balcomb

On 11 June 2012 administrative law judge Ken S. Welsch delivered a scathing assessment and firm verdict in regard to OSHA's case vs SeaWorld. The investigation, and subsequent ruling were triggered by the tragic brutal killing of trainer Dawn Brancheau on 2.24.2010. Since that time killer whale trainers have not gotten into the water for shows. This verdict could have major consequences for marine parks that have killer whales. In this radio interview journalist Tim Zimmermann and former trainer Samantha Berg talk with radio host Sam Simon. 

Former Trainer Samantha Berg & Journalist Tim Zimmermann Discuss OSHA v SeaWorld Verdict

Former SeaWorld trainer Samantha Berg has a fascinating interview with animal advocate and radio host Sam Simon. Simon is most famous for developing "The Simpsons" TV show, among other accomplishments. Samantha can be Tweeted @Sam10K and Sam @ Simonsam. 

Voice of the Orcas

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