Captive Orca Lolita Kept in Illegal Conditions

Lolita (aka Tokitae) is being held in the Miami Seaquarium (MSQ) in Florida. Despite the fact the tank does not meet minimum size requirements as set out by U.S. law and the fact that it doesn't provide Pacific Northwest Southern resident orca Lolita with any shade from the sun, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has decided to renew the MSQ's federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA) licence to keep and display her. 

As a result, the Animal Legal Defence Fund, as well as PETA and other private citizens, are suing the USDA's decision to hand out this permit to "the smallest orca tank on the continent" - so small and open that it is in violation of the AWA. 

For more information visit: http://www.orcanetwork.org/

http://www.opposingviews.com/i/society/animal-rights/aldf-peta-sue-usda-renewing-miami-seaquariums-federal-license
 
So who is Lolita? Where did she come from? Why is it important her living conditions be addressed? Here is a good resource from the Orca Network that will help you learn a little more about this Southern resident orca: 

http://www.orcanetwork.org/captivity/beforecapture.html