Alaska SeaLife Center announces birth of Steller sea lion pup
August 21, 2017

Alaska SeaLife Center announces birth of Steller sea lion pup

Seward, Alaska (August 21, 2017) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is pleased to announce the birth of a Steller sea lion pup, Kuliak, to parents Eden and Pilot. Kuliak is named for Cape Kuliak, a Steller sea lion rookery in Katmai National Park. Born on June 22, the male pup weighed 50 pounds at one week old. At his most recent weigh-in on Aug. 12, Kuliak weighed 87 pounds. He is the fourth Steller sea lion pup ever born at the Center, and the fourth born in a North American facility since the 1980s.

“We’re excited to announce this new addition to the Alaska SeaLife Center family. Both Eden and Kuliak are doing well,” said ASLC Director of Animal Health, Dr. Carrie Goertz. "Having pups around is a lot of fun; watching them learn about the world around them and seeing their peronalitied develop is so enjoyable. He’s strong, healthy, and reaching all the developmental milestones we observed with his siblings.” 

The Alaska SeaLife Center is permitted by National Marine Fisheries Service for scientific research with Steller sea lions, some populations of which are listed as endangered. ASLC is studying population dynamics, foraging behavior, reproductive biology, and maternal care. Pregnancies in Steller sea lions are closely monitored by ASLC husbandry, veterinary and research staff. Eden was given routine checkups and periodic ultrasounds throughout her pregnancies. Both Eden and pup are in good health and being given time to nurture and bond within a private, monitored environment before joining the other Steller sea lions at the Center.

About ASLCOpened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org or find us on Facebook. 

 

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