Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk introduces new harbor seal

Kaya photo via Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk announced the arrival of Kaya, an 8-year-old harbor seal, who joined the aquarium’s Pinniped Cove exhibit this month. Kaya relocated to Connecticut from the Aquarium of the Pacific in California as part of a cooperative animal welfare partnership.

Born April 20, 2018, Kaya is distinguished from the aquarium’s other harbor seals — Gracie, Sono, and Mikey — by her uniquely spotted fur pattern. Staff reported that she has transitioned quickly to her new environment, appearing confident while interacting with her new counterparts.

“In fact, on Kaya’s first night on the exhibit, we saw her hauled out with everyone to sleep, which was a great sign,” said Dylan Salamone, assistant curator at The Maritime Aquarium. The relocation was coordinated through the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, a program designed to manage and ensure the sustainability of healthy animal populations within accredited facilities.

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Aquarium officials noted that harbor seals serve as ambassadors for the species, helping the public understand the environmental challenges they face in the wild. Rachel Stein, director of animal husbandry, stated that animals like Kaya are vital in inspiring guests to protect wildlife in the Long Island Sound.

The Maritime Aquarium holds daily seal feedings at 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., where visitors can observe Kaya and the rest of the population. Further information regarding the aquarium’s conservation efforts and exhibits is available at the organization’s website.

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Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk introduces new harbor seal