A killer whale known for killing one of its trainers at the centre of a tidal wave of concern from animal rights groups has died.
Keto, an orca at Loro Parque in northern Tenerife, died aged 29. The cause of death was analysed by 21 vets but has not yet been confirmed to the public and further tests are taking place.
The animal showed “signs of discomfort” before its death, Loro Parque staff said. Keto moved there from Sea World Orlando in 2006.
READ MORE:World's tallest and shortest women meet for the first time ever in historic photoshoot
READ MORE: 'Extra bank holiday' in 2025 to mark major anniversary
Click here for the latest headlines from the Daily Star.
At Loro Parque, Keto reportedly showed strange behaviour such as biting down on concrete and wearing his teeth down. He also “aimlessly floated” out of boredom, animal rights group PETA said.
PETA added that Keto had suffered a “lifetime of exploitation and containment to tiny tanks”, branding places like the Loro Parque an “abusement” park.
Keto fathered three calves: Adán and Victoria, who were born to Keto’s half-niece Kohana and are 6.25% inbred, and Ula, who was born to Morgan. Keto was described as a dominant whale.
On Christmas Eve in 2009, Keto attacked an killed 29-year-old trainer Alexis Martinez during training for the Christmas show. Keto pulled Martinez under the water and the Orca expert sustained bite marks, tears to his vital organs and a number of compression fractures, the Mail reported.
Earlier his year, newly revealed footage said Martinez told his girlfriend something “could happen at any time”.
After Keto’s death, Loro Parque said: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the loss of our beloved 29-year-old male orca Keto.
“Born on 17th June 1995, in SeaWorld Orlando, Keto became part of the Loro Parque family in 2006, where he served for years as an extraordinary ambassador of his species, captivating everyone with his commanding presence and unique personality.
“There are no words to express the depth of this loss for the whole of our Loro Parque team, particularly for the trainers and vets who shared their daily lives with Keto.
“The relationship that develops between our animals and all those who work at Loro Parque goes beyond the professional, becoming a deep bond filled with love and mutual respect.”
The park added it took “every action” to help Keto once the orca began showing discomfort.
The statement continued: “For the Loro Parque family, Keto was not just an ambassador of his kind but an irreplaceable being who left an indelible mark on our hearts.
“His memory will live on in those who were fortunate to know him and in all those who, thanks to him, learned to admire orcas. Rest in peace, dear Keto. We will always remember you with the greatest love and gratitude.”
Three other killer whales are still at Loro Parque.
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.
