Las Vegas Mirage Closes Dolphin Exhibit After Third Death in 2024
The Mirage casino in Las Vegas has temporarily shut its dolphin exhibit after the sudden death of an 11-year-old dolphin named K2. The closure comes amid growing concerns from scientists and activists about the high number of dolphin fatalities at the facility over the years. K2 died in September, marking the third dolphin loss at the Mirage within the same calendar year. Maverick and Bella, two other dolphins, also passed away earlier. K2’s death was particularly surprising, as he appeared healthy and was still in the prime of his life.
The Mirage has faced criticism for its dolphin-care programme, with K2 being the 16th dolphin to die there since the exhibit opened three decades ago. Naomi Rose, a marine mammal scientist, pointed out that dolphins in captivity should outlive their wild counterparts, yet their average lifespan in U.S. facilities is only 28 to 29 years—far below their potential 65 years.
In response, Dave Blasko, the Mirage’s executive director of animal care, is now reviewing the dolphin-care programme. Meanwhile, animal rights group Free the Ocean has launched a petition. It demands the remaining dolphins be moved to a sanctuary and calls for the permanent closure of the Mirage’s animal exhibit. The Mirage’s dolphin exhibit remains closed with no confirmed reopening date. The review of care standards and public pressure could determine the future of the facility. Activists continue to push for the relocation of the surviving dolphins to a more natural environment.
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