Atlantic bottlenose dolphin born at Discovery Cove

ORLANDO, Fla. — A 3 ½ foot-long, 35-pound dolphin was born at Discovery Cove ® on Friday, November 30 at 10:22 a.m.

This birth is notable because it marks the first time a dolphin at Discovery Cove has successfully given birth to a calf conceived through the use of “sperm-sexing” research, which involves separating sperm carrying a female-producing X chromosome from sperm carrying a male-producing Y chromosome.

This scientific advancement affords Discovery Cove the opportunity to manage its species' genetic diversity and social environment. Scientists at the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center in San Diego, Calif., pioneered the ability to preferentially produce female or male dolphin offspring though sperm-sexing and artificial insemination. This recent birth represents the 15^th dolphin calf produced worldwide using sex pre-selection technology.

The female calf is continuing to develop, nurse and bond with its mother; both are doing well. This is the 25^th dolphin born at Discovery Cove since the park opened in 2000. Discovery Cove's parent company, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, has one of the most successful dolphin breeding programs in the world.

Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort experience where guests enjoy a one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel with rays and tropical fish, hand-feed exotic birds and relax on pristine beaches. To discover more, visit DiscoveryCove.com.

WFTV