Baby sea lion, Asian elephant born at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

COLUMBUS — The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium announced the arrival of two new babies this month, a sea lion pup and an Asian elephant calf.

The the zoo’s animal care team confirmed on Friday that the sea lion pup is a baby girl, who was born Thursday, June 17.

Lovell, the sea lion’s mother, will be turning 6-years-old in July, and the zoo says she is being very attentive to her nursing pup who has not been named yet.

“The pup is already quite active but won’t be ready for swim lessons with mom until Lovell determines her calf is ready. For now, they will continue to bond behind the scenes,” the zoo said.

The zoo’s sea lions are part of the Adventure Cove experience.

The zoo also welcomed the arrival of a male elephant calf.

33-year-old Asian elephant, Phoebe, gave birth overnight on June 17. The zoo says the calf appears to be strong and was observed nursing shortly after being born.

“These exciting births are important milestones and offer hope for the future of these species that are at risk in their native range,” the zoo said.

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