Chronic Stress Makes Captive Orcas Sick and More Likely to Die Young

By George Dvorsky

AP

A SeaWorld show in San Diego.

That orcas don’t do well in captivity is hardly a secret. These cetaceans often die from infections brought on by their weakened immune systems, which happens despite constant veterinary care and life in controlled environments. At the same time, captive orcas often display unusual stress-related behaviors, such as self-mutilation, listlessness, and agitation. New research published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior suggests these and other health issues can be traced to a single, fundamental cause: chronic stress.

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