CLEARWATER -- Clearwater Marine Aquarium says in a news release late Wednesday that Winter the Dolphin is in "critical" condition as tests show her gastrointestinal illness worsening.
A statement from the aquarium says its experts are consulting with top veterinary specialists and "exploring all possible options to save Winter's life."
The aquarium says it will close to the public Friday, November 12th, "to focus vital care" for Winter and create "the best possible environment for her medical team." The aquarium plans to reopen Saturday morning at 10 a.m.
Winter was discovered with a missing tail in 2005 and rescued by CMA, which developed a prosthetic tail so that she could swim properly. Winter has been a permanent resident of the aquarium, and her story inspired the two "Dolphin Tale" movies.
Photo: Clearwater Marine Aquarium