Onion lived at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo since 2016 and relocated to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium with authorization from NOAA Fisheries and received an Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan (SSP) breeding recommendation with the zoo’s two females, Riley and Qilak.
Onion’s story began in September 2015, when he was found stranded at just 17 months old on Herring Cove Beach in Provincetown, Massachusetts. He was rescued by the International Fund for Animal Welfare and admitted to the National Marine Life Center’s marine animal hospital on Cape Cod for rehabilitation before joining Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. During his recovery, Onion developed a serious eye infection that left him blind in his right eye and with a lesion in his left eye, making him non-releasable to the wild. Since then, he’s had both eyes removed for his own comfort. Despite his blindness, Onion has thrived under human care.
“We’re incredibly proud of the care our team provided to Onion during his time at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo,” said Chris Kuhar, Executive Director of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. “We are happy he will be at a facility that will support his long-term wellbeing and continued success. His Species Survival Plan recommendation reflects the importance of accredited zoos working together to advance conservation, and we know he will serve as an inspiring public ambassador for harbor seals and marine life.”
Caring for animals with visual impairments is not new for the Rocky Shores team. In 2021, keepers welcomed Björn, a blind sea lion rescued off the coast of southern California after suffering traumatic injuries. Björn, who has since passed away, adapted remarkably well with specialized training, like recognizing tapping noises and verbal cues like “on deck,” “follow,” and “back.” His story helped further strengthen the team’s expertise in supporting pinnipeds with special needs.
“Onion is trained to actively participate in his own healthcare and is comfortable with procedures such as X-rays, injections, blood draws, and tooth brushing,” explained Jen DeGroot, the Rocky Shores Curator at Point Defiance Zoo. “It’s a testament to the trust he has built with his care teams in Ohio, and we look forward to building on that trust here.”
Onion is already getting along swimmingly with the two female harbor seals at Rocky Shores: Qilak and Riley. Qilak, born in 2004, is the eldest of the trio and is known by keepers for her calm, confident demeanor. Riley, born in 2011, is described as shy and sweet.
“Qilak and Riley have both successfully raised pups and demonstrated exceptional maternal care,” said DeGroot. “We’re looking forward to supporting the harbor seal Species Survival Plan’s breeding recommendation and contributing to the long-term health of this population.”
Harbor seals are found along temperate, subarctic, and Arctic coastlines in both the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans, including right here in Puget Sound. Guests can visit Onion, Qilak, and Riley in the Rocky Shores area of the zoo.
“Animals like Onion remind us how adaptable and resilient marine mammals can be when given the right care,” said DeGroot. “We’re excited for guests to get to know him and see how well he’s adjusting to his new home.”