CLEARWATER, FL (OnFocus) – Winter the Dolphin died at approximately 8 p.m. on Nov. 11 in Clearwater, Florida.
Winter was the star of the famed movie, “Dolphin Tale” and was most known for having a prosthetic tail.
Winter was housed at Clearwater Marine Aquarium where thousands of patrons were able to visit Winter and appreciate her story.
The Aquarium closed on Friday so the staff and team could pay their respects to Winter. People will be able to attend a ceremony in memory of Winter now through Wednesday, Nov. 24.
During preparation for a procedure, the CMA Animal Care team observed that Winter’s behavior and vital signs were declining. The medical team tried several life-saving efforts, but she died being held by her caregivers.
One of Winter’s main caregivers said the team at CMA tried diligently to save Winter.
“While we are heartbroken by Winter’s death, we are comforted knowing that our team did everything possible to give her the best chance at survival. We worked with specialists and marine mammal experts from around the country to provide her with the best care available. Our staff worked around the clock during this challenging time,” said Veterinarian Dr. Shelly Marquardt, DVM, CVA. “I’m honored to work alongside such dedicated and talented professionals who gave their all for Winter.”
A necropsy showed that Winter had a twisted intestine and could not overcome the injury.
The CMA team expresses our deepest gratitude to the thousands of people from around the world who sent caring messages for Winter. She truly inspired hope and was loved by millions of people worldwide.
With heavy hearts, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium announced tonight that Winter the Dolphin died at approximately 8 p.m. as animal care experts from around the country worked to treat her gastrointestinal abnormality. The CMA family is devastated.
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