The Brookfield Zoo in Chicago, Illinois, has recently welcomed a new and adorable addition to its family – a baby grey seal pup. Born on February 17, 2024, this little bundle of joy has captured the hearts of zoo enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Birth Weight and Growth
The male pup weighed a healthy 35 pounds at birth and has already gained an impressive 15 pounds in his first week, reaching a total weight of 50 pounds. As he continues to nurse, the pup is expected to gain around 100 pounds over the next few weeks, developing a thick layer of blubber to help insulate him from the cold.
Parentage
The pup’s mother, 11-year-old Georgette (affectionately known as “Georgie”), is a rescued grey seal who is fully blind in one eye and functionally blind in the other. The father, 23-year-old Kiinaq, is also a rescued grey seal deemed unreleasable. Both parents are contributing to the genetic diversity of grey seals in North American zoos and aquariums.
Current Status and Habitat
The pup is currently behind the scenes, bonding with his mother for about a month and a half. During this time, the zoo will be posting regular updates on its social media channels, allowing visitors to follow the pup’s progress. Once the pup is weaned, he will be introduced to a fish-based diet.
Unique Features
Grey seal pups are born with a soft, silky white fur called lanugo, which helps them absorb sunlight, trap heat, and serve as camouflage in the wild. This lanugo fur will molt at around a month old, revealing the pup’s true grey coloration.
Conservation Significance
The birth of this grey seal pup is particularly significant for the conservation of the species in North American zoos and aquariums. Currently, there are only 22 grey seals in seven U.S. zoos and aquariums, with the Brookfield Zoo having the largest group of six individuals.
Visiting the Brookfield Zoo
For those interested in visiting the Brookfield Zoo to see the baby seal, it’s important to note that the pup will be off habitat for several weeks while he bonds with his mother. However, the zoo will be providing regular updates on their social media channels, so visitors can stay informed about the pup’s progress and plan their visit accordingly.
Conclusion
The arrival of the Brookfield Zoo’s baby grey seal pup is a truly exciting event, not only for the zoo but for the entire grey seal conservation community. This little one’s story is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the zoo’s staff, as well as the importance of protecting and preserving these remarkable marine mammals. Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a nature lover, the Brookfield Zoo’s baby seal is sure to capture your heart and inspire you to learn more about the fascinating world of grey seals.