SeaWorld Orlando orca whale Kayla dies after illness

A 30-year-old orca whale has died after a brief illness at SeaWorld Orlando, the park announced on Monday, BBC reports.

Kayla, who was born in captivity in Texas in 1988, was one of 20 whales still housed at the company's parks.

SeaWorld said Kayla's condition had deteriorated on Sunday after she showed signs of illness on Saturday.

"Although animal care specialists and veterinarians devoted around the clock attention to Kayla, she did not survive," it said.

"While today is a difficult day for all of us at SeaWorld, Kayla inspired generations of guests and employees to care and learn more about this amazing species."