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This summer has been very busy for Oceans of Fun. Raising California sea lions takes a lot of dedicated work from our animal care specialists and this season we welcomed two sea lion births! Zeus, born to his mother Sonoma in March, is now a very energetic 5-months old. We recently welcomed Reese to first time mother Geneva on July 10^th. To ensure our pups are strong and healthy, our trainers commit a large portion of their day to our pups, but it is always worth it to see them grow and play!

Believe it or not, when sea lions are first born they do not know how to swim. Before they can enter our 18-foot deep main pool for the first time, pups must spend several weeks preparing in shallower baby pools. Under the watchful eye of her mother Geneva, Reese has been splashing and romping in her own private baby pools. By providing her with shallow water, she can gain comfort with holding her breath, and figure out what exactly her flippers are meant to do! Once she has enough comfort, she can advance to our holding pools, which are 6-feet deep.

Already 5-months old, Zeus has long since graduated to our main pool environment. At this time, he is still nursing from his mother. Pups can begin to eat fish at 6-12 months of age. Zeus spends his days playing sea lion tag with his best friends Talise and Nalu. He is quite the energetic boy – zoo guests may even have the chance to see him zooming and porpoising through the pool during our shows! Zeus’ days are filled with play which is crucial to the development of young animals. Not only does he learn how to interact in social relationships, but he is building the strength and coordination necessary to thrive in live. Once he begins eating fish, he will learn a whole new game of training with our staff!

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