Nature & Environment
Julius, the Oldest Sea Lion in Captivity, Euthanized at 26 due to Health Complications
Kathleen Lees
First Posted: Feb 03, 2014 01:13 PM EST
The oldest male Steller sea lion in captivity in the United States, Julius, was humanely euthanized at the Oregon Zoo following health complications due to advancing years, according to a statement from zoo officials on Sunday. He was 26 years old.
"Julius was an amazing, bold and confident animal," said Amy Cutting, curator of the zoo's North America section, via KPTV.com, regarding the animal's independent spirit and nature. "He learned quickly, and always seemed ready to move on to the next thing. We will remember him that way - with energy, confidence and bravado."
It's reported, via the news organization, that among other health complications, Julius also suffered from macular degeneration in both eyes, as well as arthritis.
According to The Gazette Times, he originally came to Portland from Connecticut's Mystic Aquarium in 2000 following the zoo's opening of the Stellar Cove marine life habitat.
Following his death, fellow sea lion, Gus, will now take the place of the oldest sea lion at the aquarium, as well as hold this title in the United States.
According to the NOAA Fisheries, though Steller sea lions can live into their 20s, it is rare for them to live up to their late teens. These creatures, also known as the northern sea lion, are the largest members of the Otariid (eared seal) family.
Though there are many wildlife conservation efforts to protect these creatures, several environmental factors, including illegal hunting/shooting, offshore oil and gas exploration as well as contaminants and pollutants play a role in their life and well-being.
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First Posted: Feb 03, 2014 01:13 PM EST
The oldest male Steller sea lion in captivity in the United States, Julius, was humanely euthanized at the Oregon Zoo following health complications due to advancing years, according to a statement from zoo officials on Sunday. He was 26 years old.
"Julius was an amazing, bold and confident animal," said Amy Cutting, curator of the zoo's North America section, via KPTV.com, regarding the animal's independent spirit and nature. "He learned quickly, and always seemed ready to move on to the next thing. We will remember him that way - with energy, confidence and bravado."
It's reported, via the news organization, that among other health complications, Julius also suffered from macular degeneration in both eyes, as well as arthritis.
According to The Gazette Times, he originally came to Portland from Connecticut's Mystic Aquarium in 2000 following the zoo's opening of the Stellar Cove marine life habitat.
Following his death, fellow sea lion, Gus, will now take the place of the oldest sea lion at the aquarium, as well as hold this title in the United States.
According to the NOAA Fisheries, though Steller sea lions can live into their 20s, it is rare for them to live up to their late teens. These creatures, also known as the northern sea lion, are the largest members of the Otariid (eared seal) family.
Though there are many wildlife conservation efforts to protect these creatures, several environmental factors, including illegal hunting/shooting, offshore oil and gas exploration as well as contaminants and pollutants play a role in their life and well-being.
See Now: NASA's Juno Spacecraft's Rendezvous With Jupiter's Mammoth Cyclone