INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Zoo is mourning the loss of one of its newborn animals.

On Wednesday, Oct. 29, a first-time mother dolphin gave birth at the zoo. Just a week later on Nov. 1, the newborn dolphin "began to rapidly decline ," according to the zoo.

"Every effort was made to intervene and improve the dolphin’s chances of survival, but unfortunately, he did not make it," the zoo shared.

A zoo spokesperson told 13News the dolphin and mother were monitored 24/7 by marine mammal and vet staff in the hours leading up to birth and after.

"The vet and animal care teams put tremendous effort, expertise and compassion into this pregnancy and birth. The outcome is a difficult reminder of the many challenges facing first-time dolphin mothers," the spokesperson said.

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