Front Row Seat

Front Row Seat
Fireworks tonight at 9:45 on TV-4

°

Homepage / Jacksonville News
Text Size

3 Dolphin Calves Born At Marineland This Summer

POSTED: Monday, August 18, 2008

Three dolphins calves have been born at Marineland in St. Augustine in the last two months.

Marineland's director of marine mammals, Chad Stouffer, said the total number of dolphins at the facility is now 14.

The two males and one female now give the Dolphin Conservation Center a range from the youngest to oldest dolphins in captivity. Nellie was born at Marineland 55 years ago.

"These recent births are a nice indication of the disposition of the dolphins and the quality of the environment they live in here at the DCC," said Kevin Roberts, curator of marine mammals.

While all three youngsters appeared to be doing well, Marineland staff members were guardedly optimistic about their continued good health.

The infant survival rate for first-time dolphin mothers -- both in the wild and in human care -- is 17 percent. For second-time mothers, the rate increases to between 48 and 60 percent.

Biologists generally do not consider a dolphin to be "alive and accepted into a population" until a calf has reached the age of 1, given the mortality rates of marine mammals in the wild.

Stouffer said the dolphins don't have names yet.

Marineland is the world's first oceanarium, where tourists can now swim, pet and feed dolphins.

Marineland is located on a spit of land between the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Highway A1A.

Sponsored Links

Links We Like

Sponsored Content
There is no absolute number of drinks per day that defines alcoholism. Learn the behavior and body reactions that constitute alcoholism. More

By designing a great outdoor living space you can quickly enhance the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers. More

If you have aspirations of becoming a millionaire, check out these five habits that may be worth emulating. More

The signs of Cancer can sometimes be very subtle. Here's a guide to help you recognize them early. More

Most Popular