Two orcas, a mother named Wikie and her son Keijo, are stranded in a deteriorating enclosure at Marineland Antibes in southern France, which has been abandoned since January 2025. Experts state that the tank they inhabit is in dire condition, raising fears that it could collapse and crush them at any moment. Both whales are experiencing extreme distress due to the lack of stimulation and proper care, making their situation increasingly dire.

The Marineland Antibes was once a popular marine attraction, drawing large crowds, but it has since fallen into disrepair, leaving only Wikie and Keijo behind. This abandonment not only highlights the neglect of the facility but also raises ethical questions about the treatment of marine animals in captivity. The orcas were previously subject to a failed relocation attempt to an operational marine park in Japan, showcasing the legal and logistical challenges that can arise in the protection of such animals.

As time runs out for the orcas, there is a growing call for immediate intervention from conservationists and animal welfare advocates. Their plight reflects broader issues regarding marine animal conservation and the need for effective policies to protect such species from abandonment, neglect, and poor living conditions. Urgent action is required to prevent a tragic outcome for Wikie and Keijo and to ensure that similar situations do not occur in the future.