Oklahoma City Zoo Baby Dolphin Dies

OKLAHOMA CITY, Updated 4:06 p.m. CST November 19, 2000 -- Lily, a five-and-a-half month old dolphin at the Oklahoma City Zoo, died on Sunday morning, zoo officials said.

At approximately 10 a.m., trainers noticed that Lily's energy level was low and began monitoring her.

Zoo veterinarian Dr. Mike Barrie, who was at the zoo, was notified, as was Dr. Joe Alexander, marine animal productions veterinarian and dean of veterinary medicine at Oklahoma State University.

The Atlantic bottle-nose dolphin died at 11:35 a.m.

Lily fell ill last month, but her condition improved after treatment with antibiotics. Her illness caused great concern around the zoo following the death of two other dolphins in the past two years.

An autopsy on the dolphin will be performed and results will be made available in two weeks, zoo officials said.

The Aquaticus exhibit will remain open, but all shows have been cancelled until further notice.

Sandi and Teri, two female dolphins at the zoo, are both exhibiting normal behavior, officials said.