A bottlenosed dolphin named Bimini, aged 22, met a tragic end in a concrete tank at a seaquarium in Miami. Concerns raised by animal rights groups suggest that Bimini did not receive adequate care during her time at the facility. The Dolphin Company, operators of Miami Seaquarium, disclosed that Bimini suffered from a severe respiratory condition called tracheal stenosis, which led to respiratory complications ultimately causing her death.
Despite efforts to provide first aid upon noticing her declining health, Bimini passed away on September 15. The seaquarium expressed sorrow over the loss of a dolphin that had touched the hearts of visitors and staff with her resilience.
Records show that Bimini had faced various health challenges while residing at Miami Seaquarium. Reports from the US Department of Agriculture highlighted instances where she had sustained rib fractures from aggressive interactions with other dolphins in cramped and unsanitary conditions.
The USDA report emphasized the importance of not housing incompatible marine animals together to prevent harm and stress. It also mentioned instances where Bimini did not receive appropriate veterinary care as required.
Recent observations indicated that Bimini exhibited signs of illness and discomfort before her untimely death, prompting concerns from animal welfare advocates like PETA. The organization stressed that Bimini’s life at the seaquarium deprived her of natural behaviors and interactions that she could have experienced in a more suitable environment.
Efforts to improve animal welfare standards at Miami Seaquarium have been ongoing, with past reports highlighting deficiencies in care and maintenance practices. Concerns raised by regulatory bodies like the USDA have prompted closer scrutiny of the facility’s operations and treatment of marine animals.
Miami Seaquarium’s compliance with animal welfare regulations has been confirmed by the USDA, although past incidents have led to increased oversight and calls for better care practices. The seaquarium has assured that its staff remains dedicated to the well-being of the animals under their care.
