A sea lion pup joins Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium welcomed a new member into its marine family last month: a California sea lion pup. 

Already, Pepper is a spicy and playful pup, said Jen DeGroot, curator of marine mammals and birds at the zoo. 

Pepper expressing herself — she may be little, but she is fierce! (Credit: Katie G. Cotterill / Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.)

Pepper’s mom, Eloise, was one of only 13 females recommended for breeding last year by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in the California sea lion Species Survival Plan, DeGroot said. The association monitors breeding for genetic diversity across zoos in the United States.

“We’re really excited to be able to contribute to expanding the genetic diversity of these animals,” DeGroot said.

Pepper’s parents were both rescued off the California coast as stranded pups. When they couldn’t be returned to the wild, the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium became their forever home. The zoo is one of the first responders for marine animals in crisis because of its position on the west coast, DeGroot said. 

The sea lions serve as ambassadors for their species, educating the public about the animals in the wild and their natural history. These marine mammals can be found up and down the West Coast, including in Tacoma’s Puget Sound. 

Some snoozing for new mom, Eloise, and pup, Pepper. (Credit: Katie G. Cotterill / Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium)

Born on June 6, Pepper is spending her days bonding with her mom and learning how to swim.

“She’s hitting a one month milestone and starting to grow in size and in her capabilities of maneuvering in the water and on land,” DeGroot said. “It’s been a really exciting time for us here.”

The pup is already over 25 pounds. Full-grown female sea lions range in size between 170 to 230 pounds, DeGroot said. In late August, the zoo expects Pepper to be ready to swim in the big pools, where the public can see her.