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Oceans of Fun is excited to announce that we are expecting a second California sea lion pup this year!  Veterinarians at the Milwaukee County Zoo have confirmed and are continuing to monitor through ultrasound the development of Geneva first pup!  Birth is a miracle with many uncontrollable variables for both mother and pup however our team is optimistic and busy preparing Geneva for success through training.  Based on the pup’s size and heart rate, we plan to see our pinniped family grow early this June.

Animal care is our highest priority and it’s important for our veterinary staff to monitor Geneva’s pregnancy. Our animals and trainers share a very trusting relationship. This allowed us to train Geneva to cooperate in a voluntary ultrasound. By training voluntary medical behaviors, such as ultrasounds, we can ensure veterinary visits are comfortable and positive experiences for our expectant mother.

A sea lion’s gestation, or pregnancy, will last 12 months, including a 2-3month period of embryonic diapause. This means the fertilized egg lies dormant for the first few months before the egg implants.  Once implantation occurs there is an additional 9 months of fetal growth.. This delay ensures that pups are born at the same time each year when conditions are ideal for mother and pup.

We can expect our new pup to weigh 13-17 pounds at birth, but they will grow quickly! Our pup will grow big and strong while nursing from Geneva for the first 6-12 months of their life. An adult female will weigh around 200 pounds while males can reach weights of 600-900 pounds.

Oceans of Fun is a dedicated breeding facility and we are currently home to three California sea lion pups. Two month old Zeus and two year olds Talise and Nalu cannot wait to share their pool with a new friend!