Winter Dies After Illness, Star of Dolphin Tale Movies

CLEARWATER -- Winter, the dolphin that inspired humans around the world and became the focus of two movies, has died after a brief gastrointestinal illness at age 16.

A statement from Clearwater Marine Aquarium says that Winter's vital signs began to decline as she was being prepared for a procedure. Lifesaving experts by a team of animal experts from around the country were unsuccessful.

Winter became famous after getting caught in a crab trap as a very young dolphin in 2005, forcing her tail to be amputated. She was rescued by Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which gave her an artificial tail to allow her to live her life more normally. Winter's example inspired human amputees and others, with and without disabilities, to overcome obstacles. Her story was the basis of the two "Dolphin Tale" movies that spread her fame around the world.

"The CMA family is devastated," according to the statement.

The aquarium will be closed Friday, as previously announced, but it now will be a time for staff to grieve. Plans for a memorial event are being made.

The full statement is posted below:

UPDATE ON WINTER:

With heavy hearts, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium announced tonight that Winter the Dolphin died at approximately 8 p.m. as animal care experts from around the country worked to treat her gastrointestinal abnormality. The CMA family is devastated. 

During preparation for a procedure, the CMA Animal Care team observed that Winter’s behavior and vital signs were declining. The medical team tried several life-saving efforts, but she died being held by her caregivers. 

“While we are heartbroken by Winter’s death, we are comforted knowing that our team did everything possible to give her the best chance at survival. We worked with specialists and marine mammal experts from around the country to provide her with the best care available. Our staff worked around the clock during this challenging time,” said Veterinarian Dr. Shelly Marquardt, DVM, CVA. “I’m honored to work alongside such dedicated and talented professionals who gave their all for Winter.” 

The CMA team expresses our deepest gratitude to the thousands of people from around the world who sent caring messages for Winter. She truly inspired hope and was loved by millions of people worldwide.

Winter, we love you.

CMA will be closed on Friday to provide time for our staff to grieve. A grief counselor will be made available to the team.

Plans for a memorial for Winter, honoring the positive impact she made on the world, will be announced soon.

Photo: CMA


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