Como Park Zoo’s perennially popular Sparky the Sea Lion show is set to get a major new venue.
The major $15m project has been designed to benefit both visitors and animals alike. Visitors will get more viewing opportunities including the chance to watch the trainers at work. The seals and sea lions will have more room to swim, play and train. There will also be underwater viewing and more shade for both animals and guests.
Sparky’s new home will feature a large outdoor pool complete with coves and beaches in front of an amphitheatre. Visitors will also be able to watch the animals in a second, smaller pond which will be connected to the big pool via an underwater ‘transfer’.
The larger facilities will also give the zoo the option to increase the number of animals from five to eight.
Visitors have been enjoying Sparky the Sea Lion shows at Como Zoo for more than 60 years. The zoo currently attracts around 2 million visitors annually, including 425,000 school-age children who visit through field trips and other educational initiatives.
The new Sparky facility is expected to open in 2019.
Images: Como Zoo
