Killer whale suffers major injury at SeaWorld

SAN DIEGO (WHDH) -- A killer whale at SeaWorld is recovering from a serious injury.

According to PETA, photos taken by a tourist on Sept. 27 show a deep, penetrating gash on an 11-year-old Orca Whale named Nakai at SeaWorld San Diego.

Citing other photos taken by a scientist over the weekend, PETA claims Nakai was hurt after an altercation with other whales. The organization has filed a complaint with federal regulators against SeaWorld for housing orcas that are incompatible together.

“In the wild, orcas choose their pod members, they swim with their families. In captivity, they’re kept in such tight confinement that they’re forced to be with other animals they don’t get along with. So we understand from former trainers and from whistle blowers that acts of aggression are common,” said Lisa Lange of PETA.

Despite the large gash, SeaWorld said that Nakai was treated right away by a park veterinarian after the Sept. 20 incident. SeaWorld said the orca is doing fine with.

In a statement, SeaWorld suggests the incident did not involve an altercation with other whales saying,” It is believed Nakai’s injury occurred when he came in contact with a portion of the pool environment. Immediately prior to Nakai sustaining the injury, he and two other whales were engaged in normal social behavior.”