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THE BAJA POST
NEWSROOM
SOURCE: PR NEWSMEDIA
SeaWorld Orlando is grateful to welcome a rare rescued Pacific walrus calf from the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC), now under the expert care of SeaWorld Orlando’s renowned animal care specialists.
The calf, which was found orphaned and abandoned on the beaches of Utqiagvik, Alaska, has been named Ukiaq, which translates to «autumn» in the language of the Iñupiaq people who live in the area of northern Alaska where she was first found. Ukiaq – or Uki (pronounced «oo-kee») as she is affectionately being called – brings the Alaskan spirit with her to Orlando, honoring the rich culture and traditions of the Alaskan Native peoples.
After receiving life-saving rehabilitative care from the ASLC and being deemed non-releasable by the United States Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), Uki arrived at her long-term home SeaWorld Orlando on September 18, weighing approximately 220 pounds and ready to continue her care. SeaWorld Orlando was chosen as Uki’s new home because of the staff’s experience with walrus care, and the overall walrus herd at SeaWorld Orlando allows for the best nurturing environment for her overall care and development, including a female walrus that is capable of acting as a surrogate to Uki.
The specialized care Uki is receiving at SeaWorld is part of the park’s long-standing commitment to wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. SeaWorld’s animal care specialists are working closely with veterinarians to ensure Uki’s needs continue to be met, including a carefully crafted feeding plan and ongoing medical evaluations.
While Uki’s arrival is a heartwarming milestone, she will not be introduced to SeaWorld Orlando’s guest-facing habitats immediately. The young walrus will spend time acclimating to her new surroundings and receiving the round-the-clock care necessary to support her growth and well-being.
«Uki’s journey to SeaWorld Orlando is only the beginning of her new chapter. Our team is providing dedicated, 24/7 care to ensure her transition is as smooth as possible,» said Dr. Joseph Gaspard, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld Orlando. «We want to give her time to settle into her new home, and once she’s ready, guests will have the unique opportunity to meet this extraordinary calf and learn more about our conservation efforts in the Arctic region.»
