Nellie the Dolphin turns 60 years old

JU mascot oldest dolphin in human care

Marineland is home to Nellie, the oldest dolphin in captivity. Nellie was born at Marineland in 1953 and here 60th birthday was celebrated in February. (Read story)

MARINELAND, Fla. – A very special marine mammal celebrated a birthday Wednesday.

Marineland's Nellie the Dolphin has just turned 60 years old.

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That's equivalent to about 120 years in human years and makes her the world's oldest dolphin in human care.

Nellie was born at Marineland, which is located south of St. Augustine, and was featured in several TV shows in her younger years.

In 1970, she became the mascot of Jacksonville University and received honorary undergraduate and graduate degrees.

JU plans to give Nellie an honorary doctorate as part of Marineland's 75th anniversary celebration in June.