TACOMA, Wash. — A captivating baby sea lion, named Pepper, has been dazzling visitors at an aquarium in Washington state. This playful pup was recently filmed performing stunning, gymnastic-like circles while playfully toting an artificial kelp strip.
At just 9 months old and still nursing, Pepper has quickly emerged as the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium’s most agile sea lion. “We often liken her movements to that of a ribbon dancer because they are so artistic and captivating underwater,” said a staff biologist. “It’s wonderful to see her engage so enthusiastically with stimulating activities.”
Pepper’s mesmerizing routines, which took place in Tacoma—approximately 34 miles south of Seattle—are part of her enrichment training. The kelp strips are designed to help her learn about interacting with kelp, an essential part of her natural habitat, and encourage exploration using her mouth.
These tailored enrichment tools are made from durable felt and are perfectly sized for Pepper to grip and maneuver. In footage of her performance, she deftly pulls the kelp strip with her flipper while chasing after it, creating elegant loops before clamping down on it with her mouth.
Notably, Pepper is the first sea lion born at the aquarium in its 120-year history. Weighing in at 74 pounds, she has recently experienced a milestone by eating her first fish, although playtime remains her top priority.
The eager and lively sea lion spends a significant part of her day engaging with kelp strips, proving to be a source of joy for both her trainers and visitors alike. “It’s truly entertaining to observe her creativity with the kelp,” a biologist stated.
