Bern Zoo's Seals Enjoying Vacation in Sweden Before Return to Renovated Habitat

Bern Zoo's five seals are currently enjoying their final weeks of vacation at Borås Zoo in Sweden. They have been residing there since April 2024 and are scheduled to return to Switzerland in May. The relocation was handled by Animal Crossborder Services, using specialized trucks to ensure the seals' comfort. Each seal traveled in a custom-made transport box, with the trucks cooled to a comfortable 9-10 degrees Celsius. A veterinarian and zookeeper from Bern Zoo accompanied the seals, ensuring their well-being during the 30-hour journey, which included two ferry crossings. All five seals are reported to be doing well in Sweden. Their temporary habitat includes a natural lake shared with two grey seals and another harbor seal. The animals have integrated well, with some befriending the grey seals. Borås Zoo keepers are providing daily training to prepare the Bern seals for their return journey. The renovated enclosure at Bern Zoo offers an enriched environment with an underwater landscape, varied substrates, and a shaded area to protect the seals' eyes. The seals' behavior in the new habitat will be scientifically monitored to gain insights for the broader zoo community (EAZA).