Minnesota Zoo Media Contact

If you need additional information or wish to request an interview with any Minnesota Zoo staff member, please contact:

Kelly Lessard
Public Relations
Minnesota Zoo
13000 Zoo Boulevard
Apple Valley, MN 55124
952.431.9217 direct
952.431.9300 fax
kelly.lessard@state.mn.us

 

 

Press Releases

Minnesota Zoo’s “Dolphin Dad” Meets Daughter for First Time

Apple Valley, MINN – January 27, 2011 – The Minnesota Zoo’s Atlantic bottlenose dolphin male “Semo” has been introduced to his seven-month-old daughter “Taijah” (tay-shah) for the very first time.

Born July 17, 2010, Taijah spent the past months growing rapidly, meeting grandma “April,” and exhibiting her own independence (as mom allowed). Weighing approximately 30 pounds and measuring 2-3 feet long at birth, she is now approximately 4 feet long weighing 120 pounds. Taijah is the second calf born to Allie, 23, and the fourth born to Semo.

Semo, 45, is believed to be one of the oldest reproducing male dolphins in human care. Because male dolphins play no role in the rearing of their calves and can become aggressive towards calf/mom, Semo was introduced to Taijah once staff determined she was strong enough and well-bonded with her mom “Allie.”

 “Taijah is starting to eat fish, become familiar with her environment, and interact with trainers,” said Marine Mammal Supervisor Diane Fusco. “Introducing her to Semo was a big step in her social development. Initially during the introduction, Allie and April kept Taijah close but later, Taijah was observed following and approaching Semo by herself and swam with him for a brief period. This is a positive first step in introducing Taijah and Semo.”

The Minnesota Zoo’s Dolphin Stadium inside Discovery Bay is open daily from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Because the dolphins are getting acquainted/re-acquainted, they may not be visible at all times.

The Minnesota Zoo is located in Apple Valley, just minutes south of Mall of America. For more information, call 952.431.9500 or visit mnzoo.org. The Minnesota Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and an institutional member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).