'Toki' the orca dies in captivity before planned PNW return

The orca known as Tokitae has passed away at the Miami Seaquarium, months before she was slated to return to her home Northwest waters. She was 57.

According to a statement from the Miami Seaquarium:

"Over the last two days, Toki started exhibiting serious signs of discomfort, which her full Miami Seaquarium and Friends of Toki medical team began treating immediately and aggressively. Despite receiving the best possible medical care, she passed away Friday afternoon from what is believed to be a renal condition. Toki was an inspiration to all who had the fortune to hear her story, and especially to the Lummi nation that considered her family. Those who have had the privilege to spend time with her will forever remember her beautiful spirit."

The news is a sharp turn from an update on the orca one month ago, when a veterinarian reported that Tokitae was stable and in good condition. The Seaquarium also reported three days ago that Tokitae was was doing well.

An effort by the Friends of Toki to return the orca to the Salish Sea, where she was born, had recently made progress. Plans were in place to move Tokitae back to the Northwest, and a return trip was estimated to take place later this year.