'Beloved' SeaWorld killer whale Katina dies at 50, park says
Katina the Whale. (SeaWorld photo).
ORLANDO, Fla. - SeaWorld Orlando announced Sunday that one of its beloved killer whales has died.
Katina died at the age of 50 after her health began to significantly decline as she got older, the park said.
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According to SeaWorld, the park’s animal care and medical teams had been monitoring her health for the last several weeks as her condition worsened. Katina died surrounded by staff members who had worked closely with her for nearly 40 years, according to the park.
"For many wonderful years, Katina awed and inspired millions of our guests to appreciate and learn more about this amazing species," SeaWorld said in a release.
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Katina was known for her "big personality," including for her tendency to stick her tongue out. SeaWorld said she also enjoyed performing the "speed swim" to create a cyclone of water.
"This is an incredibly difficult time for those who knew and loved Katina," SeaWorld said. "We appreciate the support of the community as we grieve her loss together with her loyal fans everywhere."
The Source: This article was written with information from SeaWorld Orlando.