SeaWorld San Antonio is facing a somber period following the death of a newborn Pacific white-sided dolphin calf, as the facility announced in a recent Facebook post. The calf, which was born early July and initially seemed to be in a delicate state of health, did not survive despite intensive efforts by the park's zoological team. Weighing approximately 20 pounds and stretching 20 inches in length at birth.
Often fraught with difficulty, the calf's critical first few weeks came to an abrupt end. SeaWorld San Antonio stated the first few weeks after birth are "tenuous for all animals and [the dolphin's] health was very delicate," obtained by MySA. Despite receiving round-the-clock care, her fight for life was lost. The mother dolphin, Piquet, who is 36 years old, has continued displaying normal behavior patterns, according to SeaWorld. Drawing upon their reservoirs of strength, staff remain vigilant and have wrapped her in a blanket of observation to ensure her continued well-being during this time.
The staff at SeaWorld San Antonio were lauded by the park for their relentless dedication, particularly now, as they navigate the emotional aftermath of the calf's passing. "Our thoughts are with the amazing members of our Zoological Department who came together and worked tirelessly to provide care for this calf and all the animals in our park," the park shared in the same Facebook post.
Over on KSAT, the unfortunate event was similarly reported, with an emphasis on the delicate nature of dolphin health in those early stages. "The theme park posted on Facebook Wednesday that their newest Pacific white-sided dolphin passed away despite around-the-clock care," conveyed the story. With constant and vigilant attendance by the care team staff, the mother, Piquet, has been kept under close and concerned monitor, to ensure she does not follow her young in distress.
