Sea Lion Lily, captured in Marina Del Rey Harbor in 2009, cannot be released back into nature due to a flipper injury. She was brought to Seneca Park Zoo in 2011 and has since given birth twice, with her son Bob currently residing at the zoo. Lily is a calm sea lion who knows various behaviors, making medical examinations stress-free. She’s vaccinated through voluntary hand injections, rolls over for belly examinations, and opens her mouth for teeth inspections. The zoo also carries out fun behaviors to enrich her experience.
Keeper Connection: Sea Lion Rehab and the Seneca Park Zoo
Seneca Park Zoo, located in Rochester, New York, is a renowned destination for animal lovers. From the Arctic Fox to the Zebras, the zoo offers visitors a chance to encounter, appreciate, and learn about various species. However, the zoo’s Keeper Connection program provides an additional layer of educational experience by showcasing the remarkable work of the zookeepers behind the scenes.
In 2018, Seneca Park Zoo welcomed a new addition to the marine mammal collection – a California sea lion named Lily. Born at the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, Lily was transferred to the Rochester Zoo as part of a collaborative effort by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to rescue and rehabilitate stranded sea lion pups in Southern California.
The Rehab Journey: Care and Recovery
Lily was malnourished and dehydrated upon arrival and required immediate medical assistance. With the aid of the veterinarian team, the zookeepers provided round-the-clock care to help Lily return to total health. The rehabilitation process involved a carefully planned diet with high-quality fish and supplements, regular monitoring of her vital signs, and physical therapy to build her muscle strength.
The Keepers: Passionate and Dedicated
Profoundly passionate about conservation, the zookeepers’ work at Seneca Park Zoo extends beyond caring for the animals’ physical needs. They believe that education and awareness are crucial in protecting habitats and species. Through the Keeper Connection program, zookeepers share their experiences and insights with visitors, highlighting zoos’ significance and role in animal conservation efforts.
The Future: A Better World for Species
Lily’s successful rehabilitation journey is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the zookeepers at Seneca Park Zoo. Beyond just saving one animal, the rehabilitation and conservation efforts of the zookeepers contribute to preserving marine ecosystems and species at risk. With their care and attention, species like the California sea lion are given the chance to thrive and survive.
In conclusion, the work of Seneca Park Zoo’s zookeepers is praiseworthy. Through their efforts, visitors can learn about the importance of animal conservation and rehabilitation efforts while seeing firsthand the care and dedication that goes into caring for animals at the zoo. The Keeper Connection program is essential to the zoo’s educational mission, offering visitors a more personal connection to the animals and their caretakers and a chance to make a difference in the world’s future.
