Two-year-old beluga whale dies at SeaWorld San Antonio

Stella, a two-year-old beluga whale at SeaWorld San Antonio, seen here in a Facebook post, died on Nov. 13, 2015. The cause of death is currently unknown. Stella, a two-year-old beluga whale at SeaWorld San Antonio, seen here in a Facebook post, died on Nov. 13, 2015. The cause of death is currently unknown. Image 1 of / 47 Caption Close Two-year-old beluga whale dies at SeaWorld San Antonio 1 / 47 Back to Gallery

A two-year-old beluga whale, Stella, at SeaWorld San Antonio died Friday, according to a statement from the park.

The veterinary team was treating Stella for signs of gastrointestinal issues, but her cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

"We are deeply saddened to share that Stella, a female beluga whale, passed away yesterday at SeaWorld San Antonio," SeaWorld said in a statement. "In addition to inspiring millions of fans to care about her species, she also helped contribute to a greater understanding of beluga behavior in the scientific community."

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A medical team will be performing an examination on Stella's body to determine the cause of death. Results should be provided within six to eight weeks.

Stella was born at SeaWorld San Antonio in 2013 and quickly became a popular staple of the park.

Park officials are looking after the remaining seven beluga whales that reside at SeaWorld San Antonio and according to the the park's statement, all the whales are all acting normally.

"We appreciate your support for Stella's trainers and care staff, who are dealing with the loss of one of our family," SeaWorld said in the statement.

According to whalefacts.org, a fully grown beluga can weigh between 2,000-3,500 pounds and reach lengths up to 17 feet. Beluga whales reach maturity between the ages of four and nine, according to the website.

This is not the first Beluga whale to die this year at SeaWorld San Antonio. A beluga whale was born premature on June 20, but died on July 12.

twhite@mysa.com

Twitter: @tylerlwhite