10/06/2025
It’s with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Ady, Adelaide Zoo’s beloved Australian Sea Lion.
As one of the oldest Australian Sea Lion in the region at 28 years old, and having well surpassed the average lifespan of her species at 15 in the wild and 20 in human care, Ady’s health has been closely monitored for some time. On Monday, Ady’s dedicated keepers observed signs of discomfort, and our expert veterinary team conducted a thorough health check under anaesthetic which identified significant gastrointestinal and abdominal issues.
Adelaide Zoo’s expert animal management team agreed that it was time to let Ady pass gently. She was euthanised late on Monday afternoon.
Ady will be missed greatly by her keepers, who have enjoyed a beautiful relationship with this playful, cheeky and highly intelligent girl. Her joyful spirit has made her a favourite of Adelaide Zoo staff, volunteers and visitors for many years.
Ady – short for Adelaide – was born at Adelaide Zoo in 1997, and after a few years at Sea World she returned home in 2009 and quickly made her way back into the hearts of many across the zoo community.
There will now be some consideration around future plans for Seal Bay. Adelaide Zoo has long said that it would not introduce new sea lions into the Seal Bay habitat in its current form, and this position has not changed. These discussions will take place in the future but for now, the priority is supporting our people through the loss of one of Adelaide Zoo’s most beloved residents.
This news is very difficult for Ady’s keepers and all those in our zoo community who loved her. It is particularly hard after saying farewell to our male sea lion, Tasko, in March last year.
We ask that you show only kindness and respect for the passing of Ady, and for our keepers, staff and volunteers who are feeling her loss deeply.
