American Humane, which has worked to protect animals for 141 years and is the largest certifier of animal welfare in the world, stands by Loro Parque and our other Humane Certified™ institutions as they were audited against the independent, gold star standard of animal welfare, backed by science, top animal experts, veterinarians and ethicists.

We can attest to the excellent welfare afforded to the animals at Loro Parque, including the orcas, which are healthy and very well-treated. Fewer than one-half of one percent of zoos, aquariums, and conservation centers in the world have achieved our rigorous certification, which thoroughly verifies the many dimensions of good welfare.

The decision by Thomas Cook is being driven by an animal activist philosophy that seeks to remove animals from our lives, and is not based on science, actual welfare considerations, the good care of the animals we encountered, or the invaluable need for humane conservation and public education that is critical to the survival of so many species with whom we share the Earth.

By taking this action, Thomas Cook has decided to take an unprecedented giant step away from their legacy of providing sound and unbiased guidance to travelers who seek good, safe, and ethical experiences, which will have the unfortunate effect of pushing more remarkable and endangered species closer to the edge of extinction.

Those seeking thrilling and ethical experiences with animals can rest assured they can find and enjoy them at Loro Parque.