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A Special “Boarding Pass” for Mizore the Seal’s Move from Kaiyukan Aquarium: A Heartwarming Gesture by ANA Praised as “Wonderful” and “Touching”
Mizore's Life Now After Safely Arriving at Otaru Aquarium
Image courtesy of Otaru Aquarium
Mizore safely arrived at Otaru Aquarium in November 2023. What is his life like now? We spoke with Yusuke Sasaki of the Marine Mammal Breeding Section, who is in charge of the ringed seals at Otaru Aquarium.
From my perspective, because Mizore was hand-reared, he is very comfortable around people and seems quite friendly. We also put toys in his pool on some days. Most animals are cautious when they see a new toy and take time to play with it, but if Mizore likes it, he'll start playing right away. He has a very curious nature.
As for his daily routine, we currently feed him twice a day. He usually spends his time swimming in the pool, and if he sees something interesting that a visitor is wearing, he might swim closer to get a look. We have many visitors who say, 'We came to see Mizore,' and you can often see a crowd in front of his pool.
His curious nature and friendly personality, which brings him closer to people when he's interested in something, may be what continues to captivate his fans. And it seems he is still showered with just as much love as ever.
Image courtesy of ANA Cargo
This boarding pass was, without a doubt, a manifestation of the immense love for Mizore. He now lives in an area of Otaru Aquarium called the Marine Mammal Park. This area is sectioned off from the sea itself, allowing the animals to live freely in a natural environment.
As he is now an adult, he no longer has his white, fluffy fur, but he is as cute as ever. Be sure to visit him at Otaru Aquarium.
(Thumbnail image courtesy of Otaru Aquarium)
いいなぁ、こういうの pic.twitter.com/FUMkBIjtII
— musca＠WILD・LIFE (@musca_zoolife) March 27, 2024
※Editor's note added on 2024/6/20
We are saddened to report that Otaru Aquarium announced the passing of Mizore, the seal featured in this article, on June 19, 2024. While creating this article, we truly felt how loved he was by so many people, and we are shocked by this sudden news. We offer our sincerest condolences.
ワモンアザラシの「ミゾレ」が死亡しました。
— おたる水族館 (@otaruaquarium) June 19, 2024
今後、正確な死因を特定することに尽力し、ワモンアザラシにおける飼育管理の技術向上等、更なる飼育技術の向上に努めたいと考えています。https://t.co/Q8ylJBxJ2j
Otaru Aquarium
■Address: 3-303 Shukutsu, Otaru-shi
■Hours: March 16 (Sat) - October 14 (Mon), 2024, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
■Admission: Ages 16+ 1,800 yen / Ages 6-15 700 yen / Ages 3+ 350 yen (Regular season)
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Hokkaido Tourism Camera-Writer Team Buchineko
We are "Team Buchineko," with many connections to tourist spots and facilities in Hokkaido. Even things that seem ordinary to us living in Hokkaido are wonderful resources. We aim to share the charm of this amazing prefecture.
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