Notchfin, SeaWorld's 63-Year-Old Dolphin, Passes Away

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SeaWorld San Antonio's oldest dolphin Notchfin died at 63, ending an era for the marine park that began with her arrival during its 1988 opening.

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At 63 years old, Notchfin claimed the title of oldest dolphin in human care, surpassing previous record-holder Nellie who died at 61 in 2014.

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The dolphin's remarkable longevity far exceeded typical lifespans, with wild female bottlenose dolphins usually living up to 60 years, according to NOAA data.

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SeaWorld called Notchfin a cornerstone of their dolphin community, where she served as "mother, grandmother, and great-great-grandmother" to multiple generations.

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Her gentle nature and deep bonds with both her pod and our animal care team made her truly special," SeaWorld stated while announcing her March 12 passing.

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The park credits Notchfin's life with advancing dolphin health research and conservation efforts that help protect wild populations.

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Her death reignites debates about marine mammals in captivity, balancing SeaWorld's care claims against critics like PETA who question keeping dolphins in parks.

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Her legacy lives on through the invaluable knowledge she contributed to dolphin health and conservation," SeaWorld's statement concluded about the beloved marine mammal.

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