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UShaka Marine World mourns passing of beloved dolphin Kelpie
Known for his enthusiasm and good nature, Kelpie has been a true conservation legend, helping over 20 million people from all over Africa to connect with the ocean. His sudden passing has left many in shock.
UShaka Marine World is mourning the passing of Kelpie, its oldest male dolphin, who celebrated his 41st birthday in January.
Kelpie was an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, and the first dolphin to be born into the Sea World dolphin family, when he was still based at the old aquarium on South Beach.
Kelpie had been on supportive geriatric care and treatment by animal care specialists and veterinary teams for several months. His death this morning was not unexpected, however the moment of his passing brought a deep sense of loss to all at uShaka..
“My thoughts go out to all SAAMBR staff, both past and present, who have worked with, and fallen in love with Kelpie. We know too that his passing will bring sadness to the hearts of millions of people in all corners of the world who were inspired by this beloved gentle giant. Our thoughts are with all of you. It has been an honour and a privilege for all of us who shared Kelpie’s life,” said SAAMBR CEO Dr Larry Oellermann.
SAAMBR’s clinical veterinarian, Dr Francois Lampen, will conduct a full necropsy later this week to define the exact cause of his death.
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