Tacoma, WA, USA - June 18, 2024.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is celebrating a momentous occasion with the birth of a female California sea lion pup on June 6, marking the first sea lion birth in the zoo’s 119-year history. The proud parents, Eloise and Boomer, have become focal points of attention at the zoo's Rocky Shores exhibit.

The newborn pup, weighing 17 pounds, has been under careful observation and care by the zoo's dedicated team. Behind the scenes, she is learning the ropes of life, from nursing and vocalizing to exploring water depths of just 1-2 inches. Eloise, a first-time mother, has been described by Curator Jen DeGroot as a natural caregiver, nurturing the pup and gradually introducing her to shallow water for future swimming lessons.

Dr. Karen Wolf, Head Veterinarian, highlighted the pup’s health journey, mentioning a neonatal exam and a course of antibiotics for a mild respiratory infection, which she has responded well to.

The zookeepers are maintaining a vigilant watch over the pup, utilizing a 24/7 camera to monitor her progress. According to DeGroot, the Rocky Shores team finds fulfillment in witnessing the pup's milestones and the success of their planning.

In the coming weeks, the pup will continue bonding with Eloise before making her public debut in the viewing pool alongside other sea lions and seals. Visitors will soon have the opportunity to participate in naming the new addition to the zoo family.

Eloise and Boomer's union was orchestrated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP), aimed at ensuring a genetically diverse and sustainable sea lion population. Both sea lions were rescued before finding their home at Point Defiance Zoo in 2019, overcoming initial challenges in their early lives to become thriving members of the zoo's marine community.