12-year-old orca dies at SeaWorld in San Diego

A 12-year-old killer whale, named Sumar, has died at SeaWorld in San Diego.

A statement, SeaWorld San Diego said, "It is with great sadness that SeaWorld announces that Sumar, a 12-year-old male killer whale, died at approximately 1:45 p.m. today (Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2010). The exact cause of death will not be known until the results of a necropsy are complete. The entire SeaWorld team is deeply saddened by the loss."

According to SeaWorld, trainers noticed Sumar was acting lethargic Sunday afternoon. Park veterinarians began a regiment of antibiotics to try to stabilize his condition, while also attempting to determine the cause of his illness. His condition worsened today and despite efforts to save him, Sumar did not survive.

Sumar was born at a SeaWorld park and was brought to SeaWorld San Diego in February 2001 when SeaWorld Ohio was closed. A necropsy will be done at SeaWorld San Diego to determine the cause of death. Tissue samples will be sent out for examination, but the findings could take weeks. Male killer whales have a life expectancy of 30-60 years.

Both "Believe" killer whale shows were canceled Tuesday, but will resume on Wednesday. SeaWorld San Diego now has six killer whales.

source: http://www.760kfmb.com/Global/story.asp?S=13114380