SeaWorld plans to stop killer whale shows at its San Diego park next year, the San Diego Union Tribune reported on Monday.
The park revealed in a document on its website that the choreographed show will be replaced with a more “informative” orca experience that will promote a “conservation message inspiring people to act,” according to the Union Tribune. USA Today reported that the document has been removed from SeaWorld’s website. It’s unclear if the plans also apply to the San Antonio and Orlando parks.
SeaWorld’s attendance has dropped since the 2013 release of the documentary Blackfish, which criticized the park’s treatment of killer whales, according to the Union Tribune. The company invested in improving its media image in recent months, including the announcement of larger orca habitats in January.
Joel Manby, CEO of SeaWorld Entertainment, is expected to reveal more details about the orca experience in a webcast today.