KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
Kodiak, a 15-year-old Steller Sea Lion, at the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, died on Friday. Photo Mystic Aquarium
The most popular Steller sea lion in Connecticut died on Friday. Veterinarians tried to save the 2,000 pound star of the Mystic Aquarium, but he failed to respond to treatment for liver disease and kidney failure.
The 15-year-old pinniped was named Kodiak, and came from the Vancouver Aquarium in 2002 when he was five years old. It’s unclear where he was born.
Kodiak had to be humanely euthanized despite "extraordinary efforts" by the aquarium’s animal care team and marine mammal specialists nationwide.
Kodiak’s handlers said he was a "tremendous ambassador" for his species, and was a favorite among aquarium visitors both for his impressive size and his personality. His trainers said they were continually impressed by his intelligence and ability to learn new behaviors.
Since Steller sea lions, which range from Japan to California, are protected, it’s unlikely the Mystic Aquarium will be replacing Kodiak any time soon.
