During the weekend, SeaWorld San Diego took to their social media platforms the sad news that the oldest of the beluga whales at their park, Ferdinand, died at 53.
“SeaWorld San Diego is heartbroken to share that Ferdinand, a beloved beluga whale, has died at approximately 53 years of age. Ferdinand will be remembered for his great personality and amazing relationships with his animal care team,” they said.
Ferdinand was born in 1969 and was brought to SeaWorld San Diego from Duisburg Zoo in Germany in 2004.
As the elder of the beluga whales, Ferdinand had gray spots at the top of his head and was much more elongated than the other whales.
He was one of three whales that were part of the “Beluga In-Water Interaction” experience at SeaWorld, along with his friends Allua and Klondike.
The friendly whale, Ferdinand, was known for his sweet and sociable personality. The SeaWorld team praised Ferdinand on Instagram for his amazing relationships with his animal care team and fans.