Dolphin with no tail fitted for new fin

CLEARWATER, Fla., July 13 (UPI) -- A dolphin at a Florida rescue center was sized up for a new prosthetic fin designed to allow her to swim with more flexibility, marine experts say.

The 3-year-old dolphin, Winter, was measured Saturday at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, the Tampa (Fla.) Tribune reported.

Experts at Hanger Prosthetics & Orthotics are constructing a new cast of Winter's peduncle, which is located between her fluke and dorsal fin, the newspaper said.

Experts said Winter has received several prosthetic tails since she was rescued from a crab trap three years ago when her tail was severed.

Winter's new tail will be constructed with an advanced stainless steel joint that will give her increased flexability, said Jeni Hatter, media relations director for the rescue facility.

The dolphin will also get a new non-slip sleeve for her stump, the Tribune said.