Whale That Killed SeaWorld Trainer To Return To Shows

Tilikum To Participate In First Performance Since Trainer's Death

ORLANDO, Fla. – Tilikum, the killer whale responsible for killing a trainer last year, will return to SeaWorld Orlando's "Believe" show.

Tilikum will return to public performing at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday.

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Tilikum, a 6-ton orca, dragged SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau into the water and killed her following a performance on Feb. 24, 2010.

SeaWorld said Tilikum's participation in the shows is an important component of his physical, social and mental enrichment. Animal training curator Kelly Clark said Tilikum has been regularly interacting with trainers and other whales.

Last month, SeaWorld announced its trainers would begin getting back in the water with the killer whales on a limited basis within the next few months. Trainers at all three SeaWorld parks have stayed out of the water since Brancheau's death.