Commerson's dolphin calf dies at SeaWorld

A newborn Commerson’s dolphin calf has died at SeaWorld’s Aquatica water park in Orlando just minutes after being born.

While SeaWorld is well known for the orcas it has in captivity, it also holds over 150 dolphins including four Commerson’s, which have distinctive black and white markings. The calf’s mother, Ringer, is 16 years old and had been on birth control to prevent her becoming pregnant. Three male dolphins are also held at the park.

This was the fifth pregnancy for Ringer; none of her previous pregnancies had been successful. SeaWorld has said this will be the last group of Commerson’s dolphins to be held at the park.