Kayla the Orca Whale Dies at SeaWorld Age 30

A representative from SeaWorld in Orlando, Florida released a statement saying Kayla, a female orca who was 30 years old died on Jan. 28, 2019.

The statement reported Kayla showed signs of pain on Jan. 26 that became worse through Jan. 27. The statement continued saying, veterinarians treated Kayla immediately based on her physical symptoms. Despite around the clock medical care, Kayla died with her veterinarian with her.

The theme park said the entire SeaWorld family was saddened by the loss of Kayla who was an inspiration to employees and guests.

Kayla was featured in SeaWorld’s Killer Whale Up-Close Tour in September, used to educate visitors to the park about different animals.

The cause of death will not be known for several weeks until the results of the autopsy are completed. Kayla was one of the last orca’s at SeaWorld in Orlando, as well as parks in Texas and California.

SeaWorld started to financially struggle after the release of the “Blackfish” documentary which was about a trainer at Orlando, SeaWorld who was killed by a whale. The movie showed the horrors whales in captivity suffer.

In response to the movie, Seaworld reported in 2016 they discontinued its orca breeding program. Theatrical orca shows would be halted at the end of 2019. The park will be moving in a different direction, emphasizing attractions and rides. Construction is underway for Sesame Street land which is children-friendly and scheduled to open in the spring.

Written by Barbara Sobel

Sources:

WFTV 9: Kayla the orca dies at SeaWorld
Orlando Sentinel: SeaWorld whale Kayla, 30, dies; cause is a mystery
WESH 2: 30-year-old orca dies at SeaWorld

Featured and Top Image Courtesy of Jeremy Thompson’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License