GALVESTON – Moody Gardens welcomed a new addition to the North Pacific Exhibit this month with the arrival of harbor seal Siku, who came from the Milwaukee County Zoo.
After his 1,230-mile trip, 2-year-old Siku settled into his new home in the Aquarium Pyramid, joining harbor seal Porter and two California sea lions, Squirt and Sam. Siku was quarantined for the customary 30 days before being slowly introduced to his new aquatic friends. Biologists are closely monitoring them to see how their social chemistry builds.
As an Association of Zoos & Aquariums facility, cooperation and assistance among accredited aquariums and zoos is a cornerstone of the collaborative community, which is why Moody Gardens staff is excited about the opportunity with the Milwaukee County Zoo, where Siku was born.
"Harbor seals are very social animals," said Diane Olsen, Moody Gardens assistant curator of seals and penguins. "We’re excited to have Siku join Porter, Squirt and Sam in the North Pacific Exhibit. His arrival will now give us two harbor seals for guests to see and learn more about."
Harbor seals, also known as common seals, are found throughout the arctic and temperate marine coastlines of the Northern Hemisphere. They are often found along rocky shores in small groups. Males mature at 3-7 years of age and reach up to 350 pounds, while females mature in 3-6 years and reach up to 200 pounds. The blubber under the seal’s skin helps maintain its body temperature. Seals can dive to depths of 1,700 feet.
Harbor seals can be brown, silvery white, tan or gray. They feature a unique pattern of spots, usually with dark spots on a light background and light spots on a dark background.
Guests can see Siku in his new habitat at the Aquarium Pyramid and also on the live seal cam.
For more information, guests can visit moodygardens.org or call 800-582-4673.
