In his May 10 column (“Time to rethink our treatment of animals”), Charles Krauthammer noted that the “overriding mission of today's zoos is conservancy,” and I could not agree more. But respectfully, Krauthammer ignores the contributions of marine mammal parks and aquariums such as SeaWorld to protecting and conserving the natural world.

At SeaWorld, a critical part of our mission is conducting and supporting research and conservation efforts that advance the care of animals in both zoological facilities and wild populations. Research being conducted today on our killer whales' milk composition will help scientists understand the nutritional requirements for mothers and calves. Research into pregnancy and lactation will help scientists understand how killer whales metabolize toxins. This research is critical for all killer whales, especially the endangered southern residents in the Pacific Northwest.

Over the course of our more than 50-year history, we've rescued 25,000 animals, including more than 500 stranded and malnourished sea lions during the current crisis in California. And unlike many non-profit animal rescue organizations, we're rarely, if ever, forced to decline a request to help an animal in distress due to lack of resources. Importantly, the animals in our parks receive world-class veterinary care and are thriving. SeaWorld is highly regulated by the federal government and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums.

SeaWorld has been a place where millions have been inspired to care about and conserve the natural world. Surely Krauthammer would agree that some recognition is due to SeaWorld.