The Welsh Mountain Zoo – National Zoo of Wales, has announced plans to relocate its three California Sea Lions to a new home later this year, in a move designed to support the animals’ long-term welfare and future care.
The California Sea Lions are expected to move to Colchester Zoo in early autumn, where they will benefit from a larger and more suitable habitat.
The decision follows a careful review of the California Sea Lions’ current accommodation at the zoo. While the animals continue to receive the highest standards of daily care from the zoo’s experienced animal team, it has been recognised that their existing habitat is no longer the right long-term environment without significant redevelopment.
Kim Wood, Director of Living Collections at the Welsh Mountain Zoo said: “Progressive zoos continually evolve as our understanding of animal welfare and best practice develops. Facilities that once represented the highest standards are regularly reviewed to ensure they continue to meet the needs of the animals in our care. Our California Sea Lions receive exceptional care every day from our dedicated team, and we believe their long-term welfare will be best supported in a larger habitat that offers even greater opportunities for natural behaviours and enrichment.”
The relocation forms part of the Zoo’s wider plans to invest in and redevelop its animal habitats, creating improved spaces for existing species and increasing the opportunities available across the 37-acre site.
A Final Summer with the Sea Lions
The California Sea Lions will remain at the zoo throughout the summer, giving visitors a final chance to see them before they move to their new home. California Sea Lion demonstrations will continue to take place every day at 12pm and 3pm, allowing families and visitors to enjoy these much-loved animals as part of their visit this Summer.
Kim added: “We know the California Sea Lions have been a much-loved part of the Welsh Mountain Zoo for many years, and many of our visitors will understandably be sad to see them leave. We feel that too. However, our responsibility is to make decisions based on what is best for the animals, and animal welfare will always guide the choices we make.”