Make way for the 2 new sea lions at Utah’s Hogle Zoo

SALT LAKE CITY — Two California sea lions joined the crew at Utah’s Hogle Zoo, the zoo announced on Thursday.

Both males, Kenney, 3, and Banana, 7, were brought to the zoo on a recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan. Kenney came from Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois, while Banana traveled to Utah from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium located in Delaware County, Ohio.

Utah’s Hogle Zoo said the two sea lions shared an area with two harbor seals called Mira and Nika, and a 14-year-old sea lion called Maverick in the Rocky Shores pinniped habitat. The new members of the zoo’s community were introduced to their new home, the seals and sea lion after being quarantined.

“One of the best things about working in the zoological field is watching your animals thrive both behaviorally and socially,” said Michael Salinas, Rocky Shores Animal Care Supervisor. “I am thrilled Maverick has found companionship in fellow sea lions Banana and Kenney. These types of events not only help animals, but they also help us learn and grow as animal caretakers. We are excited to see our new pinniped group reach new heights in the years to come!”

In the wild, California sea lions can be found along North America’s west coast. The zoo said animal care teams were closely monitoring the seals and sea lion as they continue to show normal social behavior. 

“In human care and their natural habitats, sea lions have social hierarchies,” Utah’s Hogle Zoo said in a statement. “Animal care teams are closely monitoring expected, natural social behaviors, such as vocalizing, swimming together, and occasional nipping, as the sea lions communicate and establish hierarchy.”

The zoo said visitors can tell Kenney apart from the others because he is the smallest of the group. He also enjoys ice enrichment and treats. Banana is smaller than Maverick and has long whiskers. The zoo said he enjoys working with his trainers and is motivated by learning and enjoys complex enrichment.

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