An Orca At SeaWorld San Diego Has Unexpectedly Died

A female orca has unexpectedly and suddenly died at SeaWorld San Diego.

Amaya - which means 'night rain' - was the youngest orca at SeaWorld and at the age of six she has passed away, the day after being taken ill.

Posting on Facebook, SeaWorld San Diego wrote: "We come to you today with news of the passing of Amaya, a truly amazing orca and member of our SeaWorld family.

"This is a very difficult time for those who knew and loved Amaya. She taught millions of guests to appreciate this amazing species. The specialists who cared for her at SeaWorld are heartbroken."

Petey, one of her animal care specialists went on to say: "Amaya was a playful, fun-loving orca that always put smiles on people's faces.

"She will be missed by our team and the guests that she inspired. Thank you so much for the outpouring of love and support."

SeaWorld told NBC that Amaya began showing signs of illness on 18 August. She was treated immediately but never got better.

SeaWorld

In a statement, the park said: "Despite her care team's efforts, Amaya's condition continued to decline rapidly. Her death was sudden and unexpected."

A moving response on social media has seen one visitor write: "Our heart breaks for all the Seaworld family on the loss of sweet Amaya, we have wonderful memories playing through the glass in the underwater viewing with the cheeky playful Amaya during our 4 days visiting.

"Sending all our love & big hugs from Australia."

Another added: "My condolences to the entire SeaWorld family but mostly to those in San Diego who worked with Amaya, met her and made beautiful memories with her, so much love sent to everyone and especially Kalia and the rest of the pod."

A third commented: "We are here today and mourning with all of the care staff and her fellow whales at this time.

"The immense sadness that I feel, is incomparable to what you all must be feeling, and what they must be feeling as well. My heart hurts for Amaya's staff that had worked so hard on her behalf, as well as Ulises and Kalia.

"Sending wishes of comfort and peace to the whole SeaWorld family."

Topics: News, Animal

Rebecca Shepherd

I'm Becky - a journalist at LADbible. I graduated with a First Class BA in Journalism before going on to cover criminal court cases, medical tribunals and breaking news for the national media - which inevitably and eventually became as glum as it sounds. Can often be found rocking a bag for life - which I made a 'thing' way before Rihanna. You can contact me at [email protected]

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