Mystic Aquarium is overjoyed to announce the birth of a northern fur seal pup, marking the occasion as the first fur seal birth at the Aquarium in over 20 years. The male pup, born on July 31 at 9:40 p.m., weighed approximately 11.4 pounds. This momentous event not only signifies a milestone for Mystic Aquarium but also adds to the population of only nine northern fur seals in United States aquariums. 

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. The Aquarium was among the original institutions to establish husbandry practices specifically for northern fur seals, and over the decades, it has become a recognized leader and expert in fur seal care. This expertise has made the birth of this pup particularly meaningful, reinforcing Mystic Aquarium’s critical role in the conservation of this vulnerable species. 

In early 2024, after staff noted breeding behavior between her and our male, the team noticed that Kivli had started gaining weight, prompting further investigation. Northern fur seals undergo a process called delayed implantation where the fertilized egg remains free-floating for about three months before implanting and beginning a nine-month development period. To confirm the pregnancy, the team monitored Kivli's progesterone levels, and on February 14th, Valentine’s Day, a radiograph officially confirmed that she was expecting. 

While the love story between Kivli and her pup began even before birth, it blossomed as the male pup was born within just 10 minutes of labor. The immediate bond between mother and pup was evident as Kivli instinctively nurtured her newborn, showcasing the strong maternal connection that is essential for the pup's development. 

"They sound like little lambs when they call for their mom—it’s absolutely adorable. 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,” said Laurie Macha, Senior Director of Marine Mammals and Birds. “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." 

Last year, 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. Seeing them bond and grow together is a heartwarming reminder of the importance of the Aquarium’s conservation work. 

Northern fur seals are listed as "Vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, facing numerous challenges such as climate change, marine debris entanglement, and food scarcity. The birth of this pup is a crucial addition to the population of northern fur seals in professional care in the United States. As part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), which manages the breeding of endangered species to ensure genetic diversity and long-term survival, this birth is a significant contribution to the ongoing conservation of the species. 

“We are thrilled to welcome this new life into our Aquarium family,” said Dr. Allison Tuttle, Chief Zoological Officer at Mystic Aquarium. “Mystic Aquarium has been at the forefront of fur seal care for nearly five decades. As part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), which manages the breeding of certain species to ensure genetic diversity, any birth of a northern fur seal is a critical contribution to the population in human care. This pup’s arrival is truly a blessing and a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team.”  

The Aquarium has yet to name the pup, and both mother and pup are being closely monitored to ensure their continued health and well-being. Visitors to Mystic Aquarium will soon have the chance to see the young pup and learn more about northern fur seals and the essential conservation efforts required to protect them.