It’s a heartbreaking moment for SeaWorld San Antonio and its visitors: Notchfin, the beloved senior dolphin, has passed away. Notchfin, who had been part of the park for decades, was more than just an animal in a tank—she was an icon. Known for her unique dorsal fin, marked by a distinctive notch, Notchfin had an incredible legacy at SeaWorld, and her death marks the end of an era for the park’s dolphin family.
A Life Spent in the Spotlight
Notchfin was born in the wild in 1975 and was captured at the age of four. She was sent to SeaWorld San Diego, where she would eventually give birth to her first calf, Nacha, in 1980. Notchfin went on to become a proud mother, giving birth to three more calves over the years. Her nurturing role within her pod and her many contributions to education at SeaWorld made her a cherished figure.
In 1988, she was transferred to SeaWorld San Antonio, where she would continue her life as a mother and ambassador for her species. There, she gave birth to two more calves, Bailey and Finagain. Her legacy as a mother didn’t end with her offspring—each of her children continued the cycle, raising their own calves, thus extending Notchfin’s family tree.
Throughout her years at SeaWorld, Notchfin became a symbol of marine life conservation. Her presence in the park allowed guests to learn about bottlenose dolphins, their behaviors, and the challenges they face in the wild. Notchfin wasn’t just a performer; she was a living representation of the importance of protecting ocean life.
Notchfin’s Impact Beyond the Park
SeaWorld San Antonio was home to many dolphins over the years, but Notchfin stood out for her role in education and conservation. Dolphins, known for their intelligence and social behaviors, are often a focal point for conservation discussions. Through Notchfin’s shows and interactions with trainers, visitors were able to better understand the deep connections dolphins share with one another, as well as the threats they face in the wild, such as habitat destruction and pollution.
Notchfin’s impact wasn’t only limited to the visitors at SeaWorld. Her long life in human care allowed scientists and marine biologists to learn more about dolphins’ behavior, health, and needs in a controlled environment. She helped set the foundation for research and educational programs that continue to this day.
A Legacy That Will Live On
Notchfin’s death is a sad chapter in SeaWorld San Antonio’s history—she was more than just a dolphin—she was a “founding” member of the park since its opening in 1988, as San Antonio Express-News reported.
“With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Notchfin, one of our most cherished bottlenose dolphins, on March 12 at the remarkable age of 63,” the park wrote in a Friday update to Facebook.
“Her gentle nature and deep bonds with both her pod and our animal care team made her truly special,” the park wrote. “Notchfin touched the lives of millions, and while we knew this day would come, her loss is deeply felt.”
“Rest in peace, Notchfin,” SeaWorld wrote. “You will always be remembered.”
