Southwest Airlines and SeaWorld Entertainment are ending their 25-year-old marketing partnership, officials with both companies said Thursday, as the airline has been urged by animal rights activists to terminate the relationship.

As part of the partnership, three Southwest airplanes had various SeaWorld animals painted on their bodies. Those planes will be returned to Southwest's traditional livery.

SeaWorld officials said the decision was mutual. SeaWorld wants to concentrate on growing markets in Latin America and Asia. Earlier this year, animal rights activist held a rally and dropped off a petition at Southwest, urging the airline to end the relationship.

- Associated Press