Northern Fur Seal Gives Birth To Pup At Mystic Aquarium

MYSTIC, CT — Mystic Aquarium announced the birth of a northern fur seal pup earlier this week, marking the occasion as the first fur seal birth at the aquarium in over 20 years.

The male pup was born July 31 and weighed 11.4 lbs.

Mystic Aquarium has a long-standing history with northern fur seals, having housed and cared for them for nearly all of its 50 years of operation, according to a statement from the aquarium. It was among the original institutions to establish husbandry practices specifically for northern fur seals.

The aquarium plays a "critical role in the conservation of this vulnerable species," according to the statement.

The pup's mother is Kivli, who aquarium staff confirmed was pregnant in February.

"(The pups) sound like little lambs when they call for their mom—it’s absolutely adorable," Laurie Macha, senior director of Marine Mammals and Birds, said in a statement. "Watching the pup figure out how to move its body is both funny and cute—their ears are too long, and their flippers are so disproportionate. It’s hilarious to see them adjust. A lot of time is spent establishing that bond, with vocal interactions playing a key role in helping them identify each other. It’s a vital and beautiful process to witness."

In September 2023, Mystic Aquarium rescued another northern fur seal pup named Kayok from Alaska. Now, the two youngest pups are enjoying each other's company—playing, swimming together, and snuggling up for a nap once they’re tuckered out.