NPR

SeaWorld Euthanizes Its Oldest Killer Whale After Respiratory Issues

Kasatka, believed to be 42 years old, was a matriarch of the orca pod in San Diego. Orcas typically live to at least 50 in the wild.
Killer whale Kasatka seen with a calf in 2004 at SeaWorld in San Diego, California. / Getty Images / Getty Images

SeaWorld and animal welfare advocates are mourning the passing of one of the park's oldest killer whales. Kasatka was euthanized at SeaWorld San Diego Tuesday evening after suffering from a respiratory infection.

Kasatka was a matriarch

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