Dolphin Quest.

Dolphin Quest's marine mammal veterinarians Rae Stone and Jay Sweeney yesterday announced that a dolphin had miscarried her calf.

A pre-natal ultrasound on Cirrus this week revealed a reduction in amniotic fluid and a lack of movement of the fetus.

The fetus was subsequently lost but Cirrus appears to be fine.

"We are very disappointed but are pleased to know that Cirrus is healthy and likely to get pregnant again,'' said Dolphin Quest's Director of Operations Michelle Hammond.

The miscarriage was the second tragedy to hit the South Shore attraction. Last month Dolphin Quest staff and supporters were rocked by the death of the facility's oldest inhabitant which was also expecting.

Riddells, 33, died due to complications relating to her advanced age and pregnancy. When the dolphins' pregnancies were announced early last month, Dr.

Stone warned that Riddells might experience complications due to her age.

And Dr. Stone had also noted: "Although there is a great deal of excitement about Cirrus' pregnancy, it is important to be realistic about the possibility of future complications or losses.'' Studies of wild dolphins have shown a high mortality rate in the first year of life, with newborn survival estimated at less than 50 percent.

Yesterday, Dolphin Quest officials were quick to head off suggestions that the misfortunes were linked to the animals living arrangements. "Pregnancies are a positive indication that the dolphin's social, physiological and habitat needs are being met successfully,'' said Ms Hammond. "We look forward to many future pregnancies and births at Dolphin Quest Bermuda.'' ANIMALS ALS