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The lead actress of “Dolphin Tale” has passed away. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Florida announced today that Winter, the dolphin, had died of an illness on Thursday evening.
Earlier this week, according to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Winter had lost interest in food and vets suspected she had a gastrointestinal infection. She was being readied for a procedure to assist with this as her vital signs and behavior began to decline.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium said she died in the arms of her caretakers. Prior to her death, her caretakers had done everything possible to help her survive, despite her declining health.
The wonderful life of winter
Winter has long been called a “medical miracle” within the veterinary community. The dolphin lost her tail after being caught in a crab line at two months old.
In 2005 she was rescued from the scratching line. Despite attempts to hold her tail, the lanyard had done its damage. The line had reduced circulation to her tail fins, ultimately leading to tail deterioration and loss.
Winter did not let this stop him. With the help of marine biologists and veterinarians at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Winter was able to adjust to her new physical form and learn to swim again. She was fitted with a prosthetic tail – a medical first for dolphins.
For years, Winter continued to inspire visitors to the aquarium with her perseverance and energy.
In 2011, the movie “Dolphin’s Tale” told the world Winter’s story. She was featured in the film, as was her Florida home. After the film’s release, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium became a talking point about interactions between wildlife and fisheries, and Winter became one of the world’s most beloved dolphins.
In addition to inspiring others for her medical recovery, Winter has also spearheaded conversations about conservation. By regulating fishing practices and our oceans clean, we can reduce the negative effects on wildlife such as winter.
Marine animals are highly susceptible to dangerous interactions with fisheries. They can get entangled in fishing lines or even ingest fishing gear. These cause injury, illness and possibly death.
Though affected by these interactions, Winter was able to survive thanks to her own resilience and the staff of Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Not every marine animal will be so lucky, which is why we must do our part to keep our oceans clean and advocate for the wildlife that call it home.
Winter memory
A memorial event for Winter will be held at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium on November 20.
The aquarium will be closed Saturday, November 13, to allow staff time to grieve.
“Many have been inspired by her resilience,” the aquarium stated in a press release, “this amazing response reminds us how deeply she has impacted millions, including so many on their own health journey.
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