A beloved Beluga whale has died at Seaworld San Diego. His name was Ferdinand and he was 53 years old.
SeaWorld says he was the oldest Beluga whale residing in any of the world's zoos. He was also among the largest Beluga whales weighing more than 2,000 pounds.
Fans loved "Ferdinand" for his playful personality and uniquely elongated head.
He came to San Diego from a German zoo in 2004 and helped scientists learn more about Beluga whales, including a recent DNA sampling study that uses skin cells and any traces in water to help track wild populations.
On SeaWorld's Facebook page, hundreds of people are sharing stories about Ferdinand.
(Photo SeaWorld San Diego)