A new addition has arrived at Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines. Walnut, a 4-year-old Harbor Seal, was shipped from the Los Angeles Zoo, where he was born. The seal traveled over 1,600 miles by plane and car, accompanied by the zoo’s associate vet, Colin Berg.
Walnut’s Journey
Berg described the transport as ‘interesting’ but not exciting, which is what he was hoping for. This was his first time assisting with an animal transport. However, it’s not uncommon for zoos to receive animals via FedEx, according to Berg.
Walnut is currently in quarantine and will not be available to the public for a few more weeks. Once he’s ready, he’ll join the California Sea Lions at the Hub Harbor. The seal has already learned several trained behaviors, including opening his mouth, rolling over, and tolerating touch.
According to Berg, Walnut is a ‘big lovebug’ and was very sweet to his keepers. He’s expected to make his debut around Independence Day, pending his health and adjustment to his new environment.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
