Happy Birthday Sport!

Ocean Connections proudly celebrates the 30th Birthday of Sport our female California Sea lion this year. Sport is one of three , and the last surviving california sea lion which began with Ocean Connections in 1991 at the Milwaukee County Zoo. Life expectancy for california sea lions averages 6-10 years in the wild, however thanks to the quality of care marine mammals receive in zoos and aquariums today we expect to easily double their natural life span. California sea lion are commonly found along the West coast in the pacific ocean. They are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1971. Today while the natural population on the west coast is stable, life in our oceans is challenging. Marine Mammals face habitat destruction and encroachment of, pollution and a reduction in their prey due to over fishing of our oceans. Sport is an ambassador for marine mammals in the wild and has spent the past 21 years educating guest of Ocean Connections and the Milwaukee County Zoo on conservation awareness, marine mammals and environmental issues.

Today while she is in retirement, and completely dictates her own schedule, she is commonly see sunbathing upon the back show stage enjoying the afternoon sun and occasionally still chooses to join in public presentations. Ocean Connections is a pinniped breeding facility specializing in interactive educational learning related to marine mammal training and conservation. Sport has given birth to 4 healthy pups at Ocean Connections and has entertained and educated thousands of guests. Please join in celebrating 30 years with this remarkable animal. Happy Birthday Sport!!!

Read Sport's Bio