However, this is not the case for the orcas kept in SeaWorld. These orcas are living out their human-like lifespans, in a glorified pool. Since these creatures are large-brained and known for being very complex animals, it is no surprise that SeaWorld has seen so many issues with them. According to Blackfish, there was more than 30 attacks by captive orcas in SeaWorld since they brought them in nearly 60 years ago. Whereas in the wild, there has only been four alleged attacks on humans. In the film, it is also mentioned that the whales in captivity often clash with each other, this is very uncommon. However, in their situation where no true pod is formed and families often don’t stay together, it would make sense. With an environment built around seclusion, it is questionable if these acts can be summed up to a psychosis brought on by captivity. There have been studies surrounding other captive animals, that have noted behavioral abnormalities among them. One study surrounds chimpanzees, who are also very complex and human-like creatures. The study found “that even chimps at very well regarded zoos displayed the disturbing behaviors” (Viegas). All of these behaviors point to mental illness included “poking at their own eyes and other body parts, banging themselves against surfaces, pull out their hair, pacing, drinking urine, and doing other things…
