March 2, 2024

From the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

It is with great sadness that the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium reports one of its female California sea lions, Tamale, died on February 24 at age 11, likely due to leptospirosis for which she was being treated.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection; it is the number-one infectious condition in wild sea lions. Unfortunately, two-thirds of those with the illness do not survive despite treatment. Tamale had been treated over the past six weeks for the infection and initially responded well but then regressed.

Tamale was born in 2012 and transferred from SeaWorld Orlando to Kansas City in 2014. Her animal care specialists described her as smart, athletic, and strong; she was able to jump the highest and swim the fastest while still looking very elegant. They will fondly remember her sunbathing in the pool and enjoying ice and Jell-O treats.

The loss of Tamale leaves the KCZoo with three female California sea lions: Delilah, age 13; Luna, age 9; and Pepper, age 9.

Tamale will be dearly missed by her Zoo family, including staff, volunteers, and guests.