Learn more about Past Residents

In Memory of Indy - Found May 2004 – March 2011

Indy passed unexpectedly in the early morning hours on Friday, March 25th.

CMA rescued Indy in May, 2004, from Indian Rocks Beach, Florida. He was in critical condition when found, unable to swim, and had sustained shark and dolphin bites over his entire body. The more serious bite wounds were lacerations on his peduncle and a severed fluke. Indy's wounds were treated aggressively on a daily basis and healed completely over the course of several months.

Indy's ability to survive on his own in the wild came into question since past releases of juveniles had low success rates (compared to adults). The primary concern was whether Indy would be able to sustain his weight in the wild since he had stranded significantly underweight and refused to eat live fish in captivity (even despite 24-hour fasting). Additionally, a young juvenile such as Indy would still be dependent on his mother for the next three to four years in order to acquire life skills, which he obviously lacks based on his overall condition when he stranded. Finally it was decided Indy would become a permanent CMA resident.

Indy loved to vocalize and learn new behaviors. Indy, you will be missed!

May You Rest in Peace...

In Memory of Sunset Sam – 1984-2001

Sunset Sam was the first dolphin in Florida to survive a beaching in1984. setting standards by which rehabilitated dolphins may be released. His contributions to science were numerous and significant. However, due to chronic liver problems, Sunset could not be released.

Sunset Sam learned to paint, and he really enjoyed it. His unique style appealed to so many people, and his work is known throughout the world. The proceeds from his paintings help the Clearwater Marine Aquarium fund our operations and stranding program. Sunset Sam's participation in the Clearwater Marine Aquarium's Full Circle Programs affected the lives of many handicapped children. Without Dr. Goldston's medical expertise, Sunset Sam never would have survived past 1984, and we all would have lost 17 years of enlightenment and sunshine.

May You Rest in Peace...