Following SeaQuest Roseville's closure and bankruptcy filing, over 1,000 displaced animals have found new homes at two major Minnesota attractions - the Minnesota Zoo and Sea Life at Mall of America.
The Minnesota Zoo welcomed more than 100 animals, including two wallabys named Cisco and Chubbs, who are currently in quarantine recovering from minor wounds and gaining weight. The zoo's new residents also include reptiles, sugar gliders, a sloth, and an armadillo, which visitors can view along the Tropics Trail.
"They were probably hand-raised by people, so they don't fully understand that they're wallabys," explained Dr. Anne Rivas, director of animal health at the Minnesota Zoo. She confirmed that all relocated animals are in stable condition.
Sea Life at Mall of America provided sanctuary to approximately 600 aquatic creatures, including spotted garden eels, a shark, and various species of rays. Drew Turner, senior aquarist at Sea Life, noted that while many animals arrived in good health, some required additional medical attention. The majority remain under quarantine as they adjust to their new environment.
The rapid relocation effort has been praised by both facilities. "To be able to provide placement for all of these unique diverse animals in a fairly short amount of time and get them there safely and in tip top shape, has been really a phenomenal effort to get to be a part of," said Dr. Rivas.
Both Sea Life and the Minnesota Zoo have confirmed that most of these animals will permanently remain at their facilities, where they will receive professional care from experienced staff and marine biologists.