September 01, 2026 - 229 views
A much-loved chapter in the history of the Welsh Mountain Zoo is coming to an end, with visitors being given one final chance to see its famous California sea lions before they move to a new home.
The zoo has announced that Sunday, September 6 will be the final sea lion demonstration at the Colwyn Bay attraction, bringing an end to decades of the animals being one of its most familiar and popular sights.
The three sea lions, Monty, Cali and Sofia, are due to move together to Colchester Zoo in early autumn, where they will have access to a larger and more suitable habitat.
The move follows a review of their current accommodation at the Welsh Mountain Zoo. While keepers say the animals continue to receive excellent daily care, the zoo has concluded that the existing habitat is no longer the right long-term environment without significant redevelopment.
The decision is part of a wider programme to redevelop habitats across the 37-acre site, with the zoo saying its understanding of animal welfare and best practice continues to evolve.
Kim Wood, Director of Living Collections, said the animals' long-term welfare had to be the deciding factor.
The sea lions have been an important part of the zoo's history for many years. The Welsh Mountain Zoo itself opened in 1963, becoming the oldest and most established zoo in Wales, and has welcomed more than eight million visitors since opening.
The sea lion attraction became a major feature of the zoo's development, with Sea Lion Rock completed in 2006, giving generations of North Wales families the opportunity to watch the animals being trained, fed and performing during demonstrations.
For many visitors, the sea lions have become part of the traditional Welsh Mountain Zoo experience, with families returning over the years and introducing new generations to the animals.
The zoo has previously offered visitors the chance to get particularly close to the sea lions through keeper-led animal experiences, including feeding and interacting with them.
The zoo says it understands that many visitors will be sad to see the trio leave, but believes their move represents a positive step for their future.
There is still a chance to say goodbye. The final demonstration will take place on Sunday, September 6, and the zoo is expecting it to be particularly busy, so visitors are being encouraged to book their admission in advance.
The zoo says members can attend free, while advance ticket bookings offer a 15 per cent saving.
For a generation of North Wales families, it will be the final opportunity to watch the familiar sea lions in the pool before they begin the next chapter of their lives.
