A 20-pound bundle of sea lion pup joy is now out and about for Denver Zoo visitors to coo over after his June 11 birth, officials announced Friday.
The unnamed male is the first of its species born at Denver Zoo since 2010, according to a zoo news release.
Born to mom, Luci, and dad, Nick, who spend their days splishing and splashing at the seal pool, the pup is the second offspring for both parents.
Mom and pup have formed an incredible bond, the zoo said, with Luci waking her son up to nurse regularly, keeping a watchful eye on him when they are in the pool and eating 20 pounds of fish per day to make her milk more nutritious.
“The pup will spend his first year nursing while transitioning to fish,” the release said.
The little sea lion could weigh up to 800 pounds as an adult, the release said, but, for now, is enjoying making sheep-like noises, learning to swim and even participating in training sessions with his mom as he mimics her behavior.
Visitors in need of a sea lion pup sighting can head over to the Northern Shores exhibit to catch a glimpse of Luci and her son, weather permitting.
Elizabeth Hernandez: 303-954-1223, ehernandez@denverpost.com or
