SeaWorld Orlando has a new resident at its park—Ukiaq, an orphaned Pacific walrus from Alaska.
Ukiaq, or Uki (pronounced “oo-kee”) for short, was found by residents in Utqiagvik, Alaska, in July. Her name translates to “autumn” in the language of the Inupiaq people.
After receiving life-saving rehabilitative care at the Alaska SeaLife Center, she was deemed non-releasable by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
Uki arrived at SeaWorld on Sept. 18, weighing about 220 pounds. The park was selected as her new home because of its staff’s experience in walrus care and because of its herd, which includes a female walrus that can become a surrogate mom to Uki.
“Uki’s journey to SeaWorld Orlando is only the beginning of her new chapter,” 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.”
For now, Uki is receiving specialized care, including a carefully crafted feeding plan and ongoing medical evaluations.
