The calf of the orca Morgan has successfully navigated the most critical stage of its development, becoming a symbol of hope for biodiversity and reaffirming the zoo’s global leadership in cetacean welfare
Loro Parque celebrates the first anniversary of Teno, the orca calf born on March 31, 2025, marking a milestone of great scientific and conservation significance. This event goes beyond mere commemoration, representing a success in the field of cetacean care, especially given that in the wild around 50% of calves do not survive their first year of life due to the vulnerability of their immune systems.
Since birth, Teno has been under the constant supervision of a multidisciplinary team comprising keepers, vets and researchers. Over these twelve months, his development has been excellent, with steady growth, active behaviour and early signs of socialisation – key factors for his long-term wellbeing.
Today has been particularly emotional at the Animal Embassy, where the animal care team wanted to mark this significant occasion with a very special celebration. Teno enjoyed a large cake made especially for him, which was presented to him in the water by his carers in an environment designed for enrichment and stimulation. Such activities not only strengthen the bond between the animals and the team, but also form part of the welfare programmes that stimulate their cognitive abilities and natural behaviours.
The role of his mother, Morgan, has been crucial. Her story is one of the most iconic in the field of marine conservation, as she was rescued in critical condition off the coast of the Netherlands in 2010, when it was discovered that she was deaf. Thanks to the work of Loro Parque, an innovative communication system based on light signals was developed, which not only enabled her integration but has also opened up new avenues of research into the care of cetaceans with special needs.
Far from being a limitation, Morgan has demonstrated extraordinary adaptability and, over the past year, exemplary maternal behaviour. Her bond with Teno has been strong from the outset, ensuring a successful nursing process and stable emotional development for the calf. This achievement reinforces the importance of the expertise accumulated in specialised centres, where scientific knowledge translates into tangible results.
The calf’s name, Teno, was chosen through unprecedented public participation, with more than 7,000 votes, in tribute to the emblematic Teno Massif. This gesture strengthens the connection between marine fauna and the natural heritage of the Canary Islands, positioning Teno as a living symbol of the archipelago’s richness and identity.
For Loro Parque’s President, Wolfgang Kiessling, this anniversary represents much more than a celebration: “Teno is proof that knowledge, dedication and love for animals can change destinies. It is also a reminder that modern zoological institutions play an essential role in the conservation of species that, in many cases, would have no opportunity in nature.”
This success highlights the importance of institutions such as Loro Parque, which act as true embassies of biodiversity. In a global context of increasing pressure on marine ecosystems, accredited centres not only guarantee animal welfare under the highest international standards, but also promote research, environmental education and public awareness.
Recognised by organisations such as the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and distinguished as one of the most sustainable zoological institutions in the world, Loro Parque demonstrates that ex situ conservation is a key and complementary tool to protection in the natural environment.
