Visitors to the Ocean World Adventure Park, Marina and Casino in Cofresi, Puerto Plata can meet the park’s first baby sea lion. Ocean World reports this is the second event of its kind to be recorded at the park. In 2006 a bottlenose dolphin, Lili was born under human care at the park.
The sea lion pup was born on 24 July 2010 after about one hour’s labor. His parents are Chacha and Jefe, both nine years old and originally from Uruguay.
The male pup weighed 25 pounds at birth. The delivery occurred in breech position (fins first), as opposed to the usual headfirst.
Chacha, the pup’s mother, started nursing him eight hours after the birth.
The baby swam for the first time at 11 days, and his caretakers say he is already a confident swimmer. “Like all babies, is very playful and loves to play with pieces of ice, hoses and other toys made by the coaches,” said Diego Tripaldi, Ocean World general director.
“We are very happy to share this important news to the media, society and all Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, since the birth of this new baby sea lion symbolizes our commitment to preserving the environment, diversity of life, care and respect for all animal species that inhabit Ocean World,” he said.
This species of sea lions, whose scientific name is “Otaria flavescens”, also known as “Otaria byronia” are born after 11 months of gestation. This species is not endangered.
Since last summer the park has been running an educational campaign aimed at children to create awareness about important issues such as the care and protection of animals and the preservation of our planet’s natural resources.
Ocean World has a special for residents: with RD$999 adults and children RD$795 including a light lunch. On Saturday, 30 October, Ocean World’s three discotheques, plus three DJs and three kinds of music, will be celebrating an Ocean World Halloween Party.
Info events@ocean-world.info or by calling 809-291-1111
Also see www.dr1.com/directories/tourism/oceanworld.shtml