Rock-A-Bye-Baby….. BELUGA!
If you’re heading to Chicago, you might want to extend your congratulations to the most unique pair of expectant mothers in the city. Shedd Aqauarium has announced that two female beluga whales, Puiji (poo-EE-jee) and Naya (NI-yah) are both expecting calves this fall. The whales recently returned to Shedd’s newly renovated Oceanarium from the Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration in Mystic, CT and were confirmed pregnant through blood tests and ultra sound exams in May. Shedd Aquarium is one of Six North American aquariums and zoos committed to the public display and breeding of beluga whales. The whale habitats were part of the recent renovation and feature new ledges around the exhibits and a permanent observation station which will better connect guests with the animals. Puiji and Naya will continue their regular training sessions but are not expected to be participating in the new marine mammal show or beluga encouter program for the forseeable future.” This is an exciting time for us at Shedd Aquarium, with the re-opening of the Oceanarium earlier this summer and two of our most recognizable animals expecting calves” said Ken Ramirez, senior vice president of animal collections and training. ”Both whales are healthy and their pregnancies are progressing normally. While we remain cautiousy optimistic, we are equally thrillled. Our animal care and health experts continue to provide the very best 24-hour care to both beluga moms.
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