Aquarium Animals Could Be Replaced By Ultra-Realistic Animatronic Dolphins
Image via Edge Innovations
Dolphin Spirit is an apt name for the project debuting an animatronic, lifelike dolphin, which might be gracing the aquariums and theme parks near us.
Weighing in at 550 pounds, the 8.5-foot dolphin named ‘Delle’ has skin made from medical-grade silicone, and swims, dives, and acts just like a regular dolphin. Delle was created by Edge Innovation, the company behind the creatures used in the blockbusters Free Willy and Deep Blue Sea.
The company’s aim was “to create a new kind of educational and entertainment experience featuring closeup and personal interactions with these amazing animals.”
“We want to help create a future filled with wonder, excitement, and education,” says Edge Innovation. “But not at the expense of the animals we love so much.”
Animatronics may bring back audiences turned off by parks using live animals, such as SeaWorld, which have faced immense backlash over the way they keep and treat sea animals in their parks. Around 20 European countries have already banned or limited circuses from using live animals as entertainment, too.
However, although animal rights have risen to concern, and the breeding, transport, and captivity of marine animals have become more restricted, there is still a demand for it. This is where Delle and potential future aquatic acquaintances will come into play.
The first pilot attraction to feature Delle is scheduled to open in the summer of 2022.
[via The Brighter Side of News, image via Edge Innovations]
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