CZS are saddened to report loss of Atlanta the sea lion.
We are deeply saddened to report that one of our beloved Patagonian sea lions, Atlanta, passed away on Sunday 13th April 2025.
Over the recent period, Atlanta was under veterinary observation and underwent several diagnostic procedures including blood samples and X-rays as well as clinical observations. This all took place under the care of the Zoo’s consultant veterinary team and our Animal Care Team.
Unfortunately, a definitive diagnosis was unable to be confirmed. Despite all possible efforts given to help keep Atlanta comfortable with medical care as well as non-drug therapies, sadly her health took a turn for the worse over the weekend and she passed away early Sunday morning.
It is always difficult when an animal passes away, especially one with a big personality that has been at the Zoo for so many years. Atlanta arrived at CZS in November 2003 so was truly part of the CZS family having been here for over 20 years. She was in her mid-20s so spent most of her life with us. Our thoughts are with all of our Animal Care Team who have had the pleasure of working with her.
Lizzie Durkin, who cared for Atlanta and is a Lead Keeper at CZS said, “Atlanta was the sun worshiper of the group, she loved snoozing in the sun, and she would be the first out of the pool to relax on the beach, as soon as the weather got warmer.”
Kirsty Lawman, Team Leader of our Animal Care Team who look after the sea lions at CZS, has cared for Atlanta for a number of years now, she said, “Atlanta was a unique character within our group of Patagonian sea lions, she loved getting involved in enrichment feeds and joining in training sessions with the team. Atlanta was beautiful, she had the biggest eyes and longest whiskers out of all of the sea lions, she will be greatly missed by all of the team, and Playa Patagonia will not be the same without her.”
We have no doubt that our remaining group of sea lions, Milan, Sydney and Winnipeg, will miss their beloved friend, Atlanta, but the Animal Care Team will be on hand to help them recover from this sad loss. We would like to thank everyone for their support during this difficult time.
