LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Another dolphin has died at the Mirage’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, the resort confirmed Wednesday.
One of five dolphins in the habitat, Duchess is the fourth dolphin to die within the year. she was 48 years old.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of The Duchess, our patriarch bottlenose dolphin and a beloved member of the Mirage Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat family. He was one of five dolphins to open a habitat in the Pacific Ocean,” said Mirage President Joe Lupo in a statement.
Last April, the Duchess’ granddaughter, 13-year-old Bella, died after weeks of treatment for gastroenteritis.In early September, 19-year-old Maverick died after being treated for a lung infection. A few weeks later, 11-year-old K2 died while being treated for a respiratory illness.
The facility temporarily closed after K2’s death before a full closure was announced last November.
“We are extremely grateful to the Mirage animal care team and veterinary professionals who worked hard to ensure that Duchess was loved, received the best care and was as comfortable as possible. has brought immeasurable joy and happiness to countless visitors and to the Mirage family,” the statement continued.
MGM previously announced that it would sell The Mirage to Hard Rock International. According to a letter sent to Mirage employees, the Hard Rock leadership team announced that they would eventually permanently close the Habitat before beginning construction of the Guitar Hotel and other planned redevelopment.
According to the National Marine Fisheries Service, bottlenose dolphins typically live 40 to 60 years in the wild.