On 10 September 1998, Keiko, the killer whale, or orca, who starred in the 1993 film 'Free Willy', was returned to his home in waters of Iceland after spending 19 yeas in captivity. A special cage was built for him to live in the ocean until it was determined if he couold return to the wild. He was moved to Taknes, Norway, but did not adjust well to independence and needed the company of humans. He died of pneumonia on 12 December 2003, and was buiried on a beach nearby.

Facts about Killer Whales

Killer Whales (Orcas) are the largest of the dolphins.

One of the world's most powerful predators.

Females, or cows, average about 7 metres in length.

Most males probably reach a length of 8 to 9 metres.  

Eat marine mammals such as seals, sea lions, and even whales. They also eat fish, squid, and seabirds.

Live mostly in cold, coastal waters but can also be found from the polar regions to the Equator.

Killer whales hunt in deadly pods, family groups of up to 40 individuals.

Mothers give birth every three to ten years, after a 17-month pregnancy.

Also on this day .....

Eid-Al-Fitr: Celebrating the Fast
Islamic date: Shawwal 1, 1431.
Begins at sunset on he previous day. The festival celebrats having completed Ramadan fasting (which began 11 August) and usually lasts for several days. Everyone wears new clothes; children receive gifts from parents and relatives; games are played, folktales told, and puppet shows performed.