ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Orlando is mourning the loss of one of its longtime killer whales named Katina.
The theme parks says Katina was 50 years old and her health had been declining for some time.
“Despite everyone’s extraordinary efforts, she passed away while surrounded by animal care and medical teams who have worked closely with her for nearly 40 years,” SeaWorld said in a statement.
SeaWorld added that Katina was known for her “big personality,” entertaining guests by sticking out her tongue and creating a cyclone of water by “speed swimming.”
“For many wonderful years, Katina awed and inspired millions of our guests to appreciate and learn more about this amazing species,” SeaWorld’s statement continued. “This is an incredibly difficult time for those who knew and loved Katina.”