Another sign of recovery here in New Orleans--the Audubon Park sea lions are back.
The Return
After Hurricane Katrina, the sea lions beloved to all children in New Orleans were evacuated to Texas. Sushi, Lilli, and Porter went to Moody Gardens in Galveston, while Katie and Cinnamon went to the Houston Zoo. During their absence, the Zoo took the opportunity to renovate the historic Oppenheimer Sea Lion Pool. Now the five have returned home.
The Odenheimer Sea Lion Pool was built in 1924 and is named after cotton magnate Sigmund Odenheimer, who donated the money. In the graceful Greek Revival style, and set amongst the beautiful oaks in the park, the pool has delighted generations of children and has been the site of many parties, weddings, and other events. Currently, the lions are housed in the lower pool, while the upper pool will be reopened later in 2008.
The Show
Of course, the best part of the experience is the show the lions put on. They are as individual as people, and have learned their own signature wave of the flipper. Lilli wants to be the star, but will have to claim that title from Sushi. When they are not hamming it up for the audience, they paint pictures and vie for frozen fish pops.(Iknow, I know, but they seem to love it.)
These friendly animals delight adults and children alike--make sure you stop by to visit them on your Audubon Zoo visit.
