Health

The Miami Seaquarium Mourns the Passing of Bimini, a 26-Year-Old Common Bottlenosed Dolphin

By By Leisure Investments Holdings LLC,et al. The Dolphin Company

Copyright berkshireeagle

The Miami Seaquarium Mourns the Passing of Bimini, a 26-Year-Old Common Bottlenosed Dolphin

Bimini, a common bottlenosed dolphin, passed away at the age of 26 under the attentive care of experts at the Miami Seaquarium.Early in Bimini’s life she acquired a chronic condition, tracheal stenosis, which put her at increased risk for acute respiratory issues.The Miami Seaquarium has notified the appropriate authorities, including the USDA, and sent Bimini to a nearby university for necropsy.

MIAMI, Sept. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MS Leisure Company (“the Company”), operator of Miami Seaquarium, today announced with deep sadness the passing of Bimini, a 26-year-old common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), who had been under the dedicated care of the park’s marine mammal specialists.

At a young age, Bimini acquired a chronic condition, tracheal stenosis, which put her at increased risk for acute respiratory issues. Since 2006, she presented ongoing respiratory challenges, and in 2021 – prior to MS Leisure’s ownership of the Miami Seaquarium, she was diagnosed with rib fractures and pneumonia. Subsequent CT scans confirmed she had a pronounced tracheal stenosis, explaining her respiratory difficulties.

Despite these health concerns, under the Company’s supervision, Bimini remained active and engaged—cared for closely by her dedicated animal care and veterinary teams. This exceptional care and commitment allowed Bimini to enjoy a longer and more comfortable life than is typical of dolphins facing similar medical conditions.

Throughout her time at Miami Seaquarium, she inspired countless visitors to learn about marine life and conservation, touching the hearts of guests and staff with her strength and resilience.

Timeline of Bimini’s Final Days:

On Sunday, September 14, Bimini suddenly and unexpectedly developed a lack of appetite, prompting 24-hour monitoring by the Miami Seaquarium Team. Observations of pattern swimming evolved into visible signs of discomfort, abnormal posture, and shortness of breath.Lab results were inconclusive, and on Monday, September 15, first aid was administered.Sadly, on Tuesday morning, Bimini passed away.

In accordance with established protocols, Miami Seaquarium promptly notified the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other authorities, and has arranged for a necropsy at a nearby university to better understand the circumstances of her passing.

“The loss of Bimini is felt profoundly by everyone at Miami Seaquarium and across the local community,” said Steven Strom, Independent Director of MS Leisure Company, Steve continued “It is with heavy hearts that our entire Miami Seaquarium Team remembers Bimini’s enduring legacy. While we are heartbroken of her loss, the entire Miami Seaquarium Team will remember Bimini’s enduring legacy.” Robert Wagstaff, Chief Restructuring Officer of MS Leisure Company, stated “Bimini’s resilience in the face of a lifelong medical condition was remarkable. Bimini was not only a symbol of strength but also a reminder of the responsibility we carry in caring for animals with complex medical needs. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of animal welfare and transparency. We take comfort knowing Bimini received extraordinary care throughout her life, and we are profoundly grateful for the continued love and support from our community as we honor her life and legacy.”

The Dolphin Company and Miami Seaquarium express their sincere gratitude to the veterinary professionals, trainers, and staff who devoted themselves to Bimini’s care, and to the community for their ongoing support during this difficult time.

ABOUT THE DOLPHIN COMPANY

The Dolphin Company is an aquatic park operator with a global presence, operating 30 parks and dolphin habitats in 8 countries, focusing on interactive experiences with marine mammals and promoting environmental stewardship through education and conservation efforts.

Leisure Investments Holdings LLC is the parent company of The Dolphin Company who are in Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Delaware. Additional information about the Chapter 11 filing, including court documents, can be found at (https://www.veritaglobal.net/dolphinco); or by calling 888-733-1434 (U.S./Canada) or 310-751-2633 (International).

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SOURCE Leisure Investments Holdings LLC, et al. (The Dolphin Company)