SeaWorld whale dies three weeks after premature birth

A 2-year-old beluga whale named Stella died at SeaWorld San Antonio in November after being treated for gastrointestinal problems. A 2-year-old beluga whale named Stella died at SeaWorld San Antonio in November after being treated for gastrointestinal problems. Photo: /SeaWorld Photo: /SeaWorld Image 1 of / 48 Caption Close SeaWorld whale dies three weeks after premature birth 1 / 48 Back to Gallery

A newborn beluga whale at SeaWorld San Antonio has died, according to a statement from the company.

SeaWorld workers had been watching the calf “round the clock” after it was born a month premature on June 20, according to past news releases. When it was born, the calf appeared smaller than normal at 120 pounds and 4 feet in length. The calf died Sunday.

“The calf was not gaining weight at the rate our veterinarians expected, even though it did nurse from its mother,” spokeswoman Josie Villela said in an emailed statement. “Losing an animal in our care is never easy, and we thank everyone for their thoughts and support during this difficult time for our team.”

In an effort to help the calf gain weight, SeaWorld workers were feeding it a special formula of nutrients, salmon oil and whipping cream. They were “encouraged that she began nursing on her own and bonding with her mother,” according to a past news release.

A necropsy of the calf was planned for Monday morning, and results are expected in six to eight weeks, according to the statement.

rwebner@express-news.net

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