Como Harbor has broken ground on new seal habitat

A ground breaking ceremony for Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s (1225 Estabrook Dr.) new seal and sea lion habitat, Como Harbor, was held June 7.

Photo right: Land cleared for Como Harbor at Como Park. (Photo provided)

The 2017 Minnesota Legislature awarded a $15 million bonding appropriation for the asset preservation of the Seal and Sea Lion Habitat. Como Friends, the non-profit partner of Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, will raise the remaining $5 million needed for the new Como Harbor habitat.

The new exhibit will provide year-round indoor and outdoor use that will meet or exceed all regulatory and animal care requirements. The seals and sea lions exhibit at Como Zoo has been a fixture for over 60 years. The “Sparky Show”’ which began in 1956, has become one of Como’s most popular attractions, sharing fun, educational messages with thousands of visitors each day. Every year nearly 500,000 students from across the region visit to learn about nature, conservation, and animal care straight from Como’s beloved ambassador, Sparky.