A New Arctic Arrival: SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Celebrates Region’s First Walrus Calf Birth
The calf, born to beloved walrus Smooshi, marks a significant moment for the Marine Life Theme Park and its commitment to ocean conservation
Abu Dhabi(News Desk):: SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the World’s Largest Indoor Marine Life Theme Park, today announced the arrival of a healthy Pacific walrus calf. The calf is a celebrated new addition to the Marine Life Theme Park’s Arctic Realm.
Born to mother ‘Smooshi’, under the close supervision of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s dedicated veterinarians and animal care experts, the delivery marks the region’s first walrus calf to be born in a zoological facility. Both mother and calf are doing well, a testament to the welfare-focused, habitat design and the world-class standard of care provided by SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s team.
Together, they are bonding in their new home within the Arctic Realm’s walrus habitat. This carefully designed space simulates the Arctic’s cold temperatures and natural light cycles, providing a safe, stimulating environment essential for the calf’s early years. During this development phase, the calf will remain constantly by Smooshi’s side, relying on her for protection, comfort, and guidance as it continues to grow and explore its surroundings.
The calf and Smooshi are among the walruses residing at the Marine Life Theme Park, where they help educate and inspire guests about these remarkable Arctic marine mammals. Through close-up experiences and educational programs, guests learn about the importance of marine conservation and the environmental challenges facing Arctic ecosystems, including the impacts of climate change and sea ice loss.
Carlos Rodriguez, General Manager at SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, said: “This is an incredibly proud moment for all of us at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi as we welcome the region’s first walrus calf. Our dedicated veterinary and animal care teams worked tirelessly to provide world-class, specialized care for Smooshi throughout her gestation and delivery. Seeing them bond so naturally is the ultimate reward. Like all our walruses, the calf will be an invaluable ambassador, connecting millions of guests with the vital importance of Arctic conservation.”
As a facility certified by Global Humane and accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and several other international zoological animal welfare associations, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and its expert team of veterinarians, animal care specialists, and educators are deeply committed to world-class animal care.
This joyous occasion serves as a hopeful symbol of the Marine Life Theme Park’s conservation mission, providing an opportunity to educate and inspire guests while fostering a deeper understanding of walruses, the ocean and the critical need to protect marine animals and their environments.
For a chance to catch a glimpse of Smooshi and her new calf, guests can book tickets online at www.seaworldabudhabi.com.
