MIAMI, Fla. (WFLA) — A bottlenosed dolphin who was chronically ill died at the Miami Seaquarium earlier this week, officials confirmed.
According to NBC affiliate WTVJ, the dolphin, named Bimini, passed away at the age of 26 after suffering from tracheal stenosis, a chronic condition that put her at increased risk for acute respiratory issues.
The Dolphin Company, which owns the Seaquarium, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this year following a USDA report that stated conditions at the facility had left several dolphins injured.
In light of the reports that found issues at the Seaquarium, including inadequate care for animals and overall park upkeep, reporters said that Miami-Dade County has been trying to terminate the Seaquarium's lease due to unpaid rent.
Animal welfare group