The 36-year-old killer whale from SeaWorld Orlando has died, it was announced today (January 6).
News of Tilikum's deteriorating health was first revealed last March, with SeaWorld announcing that the orca was suffering from a bacterial infection in his lungs and was becoming "increasingly lethargic", but no cause of death was given in the announcement.
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"The SeaWorld family is deeply saddened to announce that one of its most well-known orcas, Tilikum, has passed away," a post on the SeaWorld website read. "Tilikum passed away early this morning, January 6, surrounded by the trainers, care staff and veterinarians that provided him around-the-clock world-class care."
Tilikum has been an attraction at SeaWorld for 25 years and was featured in Gabriela Cowperthwaite's controversial documentary Blackfish, which criticised parks that keep killer whales in captivity, in 2013.
The whale has also been linked to three deaths at the park during his time there, including that of experienced trainer Dawn Brancheau, which SeaWorld also acknowledged in their statement.
"While today is a difficult day for the SeaWorld family, it's important to remember that Tilikum lived a long and enriching life while at SeaWorld and inspired millions of people to care about this amazing species," it continued.
"Tilikum's life will always be inextricably connected with the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Dawn Brancheau. While we all experienced profound sadness about that loss, we continued to offer Tilikum the best care possible, each and every day, from the country's leading experts in marine mammals."
President & CEO of SeaWorld, Joel Manby, added: "Tilikum had, and will continue to have, a special place in the hearts of the SeaWorld family, as well as the millions of people all over the world that he inspired. My heart goes out to our team who cared for him like family."
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