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Orcas Lived With
Ulises Nov-19, 80 Dec-20, 80
Bjossa Nov-19, 80 Mar-15, 81
Benkei II Nov-19, 80 1981
Finna Nov-19, 80 Mar-15, 81
Hyak II Dec-20, 80 Mar-15, 81
Yaka Mar-15, 81 Oct-29, 97

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Vigga's Death
Measurements: 1980, 1981, 2000
Transfers: 1980, 1981, 1985
Photos: Ray Conrado





















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Gender Female
Age at Death ~ 20 years
Date of Capture November 10, 1980
Place of Capture Reydarfjördur, Iceland
Date of Death August 14, 2000
Place of Death
 Marine World of Africa
Cause of Death Heart Condition

  About Vigga

Vigga was captured off the east coast of Iceland and she was moved to the Seadyrasafnid Aquarium, where she joined 4 other orcas. In December 1980 she was bought by Vancouver Aquarium along with Benkei II*, Finna* and Bjossa*. The aquarium just kept two of the newcomers and Vigga was up for sale. In March 1981 she was sold to Marine World of Africa in the USA. The park just lost an adult orca and Vigga would be the new companion for Yaka, who depressed after losing her mate. The two females got along well and performed together for almost two decades.

 In 1985 the park's location was moved from Redhood City to Vallejo. Both females were immediately moved and soon adapted to their new environment. In 1997 Vigga's friend Yaka passed away. The young female was now alone with some bottlenose dolphins. Vigga didn't get a new companion, although plans were made to reunite her with Bjossa. Unfortunately Vigga died before the plans turned into reality.  On August 3, 2000 her health condition dropped and blood tests revealed an infection. She didn't respond on antibiotics given to her. She died from a heart condition on August 14.
  • Vigga means "Goddess of War" in Danish
  • Pronunciation of Vigga: VIH-gah
  • Blood Type: 100% Icelandic

 Relatives & Offspring
Family:
Wild Icelandic Orcas


 Transfers
  • November 19 1980 - December 20, 1980   Sædyrasafnid Aquarium
  • December 20, 1980 - March 15, 1981  Vancouver Aquarium
  • March 15, 1981 - October 20,  1985  Marine World of Africa, Redwood City
  • October 20, 1985 - August 14, 2000   Marine World of Africa, Vallejo

 Photos




News Archive Photos