Dudley Zoo’s killer whale, named Cuddles, was an approximately 7-year-old male Southern Resident killer whale who lived at the zoo. Cuddles was the first captive killer whale in the United Kingdom, purchased by the then-owner of the zoo, Pentland Hick, for $15,000 from Seattle. Cuddles was kept in a pool that was adapted from sea-lion pools in the castle moat, measuring roughly 15.24 x 6.1-10.67 x 3.66 m deep.
The Arrival and Life of Cuddles at Dudley Zoo
Cuddles was brought to Dudley Zoo in the early 1970s, becoming the first captive killer whale in the UK. The zoo had acquired the whale from Seattle, Washington, for a sum of $15,000. Cuddles was approximately 7 years old when he arrived at the zoo.
The outdoor whale and dolphin pools at Dudley Zoo were adapted from the existing sea-lion pools in the castle moat. The whale pool was roughly pear-shaped, measuring about 15.24 x 6.1-10.67 x 3.66 m deep. The adjoining dolphin pool was larger but shallower, with one part being 3.05 m deep.
During the time Cuddles was at the zoo, Dudley Zoo was owned by Scotia Leisure, who also owned Flamingo Park. The dolphin and whale pools were modified sea-lion pools, with the walls built up to create more depth. However, these plans were not approved by the local planning laws, and the zoo was ordered to return the pools to their original state.
The Fate of Cuddles
Sadly, Cuddles did not have a long life at Dudley Zoo. He died on February 6, 1974, before he could be moved from the zoo, due to a long-term gastro-intestinal problem. After Cuddles’ death, the pools were returned to their original design and now house sea lions.
Visiting Dudley Zoo Today
Dudley Zoo is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day, except for Christmas Day. The zoo offers a variety of attractions and exhibits, including the historic castle and the sea lion pools that once housed Cuddles.
Ticket prices for Dudley Zoo are as follows:
– Adult tickets: £17.50
– Child tickets (ages 3-15): £13.50
– Senior/student tickets: £15.50
– Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children): £56.50
The zoo is located at Castle Hill, Dudley, West Midlands, DY1 4QF, UK, and the phone number is +44 1384 215313.
Conclusion
Dudley Zoo’s Cuddles was a significant part of the zoo’s history, being the first captive killer whale in the UK. Although his life was cut short, Cuddles’ presence at the zoo helped to raise awareness and interest in these magnificent marine mammals. Today, visitors to Dudley Zoo can still see the historic castle and the sea lion pools that once housed the iconic Cuddles.