David Kirby–investigative journalist and author, most recently of “Death At SeaWorld: Shamu and the Dark Side of Killer Whales in Captivity”–discusses the relatively short period he spend reporting, researching and writing the new, nearly 500-page book, which we feel represents a towering journalistic achievement of reporting, research and writing.
He also addresses various aspects of Tilikum, the 12,000-pound bull orca who killed trainer Dawn Brancheau at SeaWorld Orlando in February of 2010 (and two people in prior years), harking back to when the whale was snatched as a baby from his mother in the waters of Iceland–describing the way killer whales in the wild, including males, stay with their mothers as adults–and once ensconced in captivity, that he was tormented by various females whales in various tanks. Kirby also explained the OSHA findings against SeaWorld in the wake of Brancheau’s death & the ensuing investigation, including an update of mere days prior, and what the implications are for SeaWorld. He also touches on the way two key whistleblowers recanted or changed their stories at pivotal, last-minute & surprising moments, and more. www.DeathAtSeaWorld.com, www.facebook.com/DeathAtSeaworld
Listen Online Now:
COMEDY CORNER: Eddie Izzard’s “Talk To The Animals” (www.EddieIzzard.com)
MUSIC: Michael Gettel’s “Orcas,” The Killer Whales’ “Orcas Revenge,” instrumentals
NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: Pink Floyd’s “Sheep”
