ORLANDO, Fla — A baby walrus has been born at SeaWorld Orlando.
The 150-pound female Pacific walrus calf was welcomed into the world on July 3 by mom Kaboodle and dad Garfield.
This is the second calf born at SeaWorld Orlando -- both to Kaboodle.
Veterinary teams are providing 24-hour care, including eight bottle feedings a day because Kaboodle was not lactating properly. But, staff still hope the calf with thrive.
"Our talented veterinarians and animal experts gave the best in prenatal care for Kaboodle, and now ongoing, round-the-clock care of mom and calf," said Gus Antorcha, CEO of SeaWorld Parks.
In SeaWorld's 55-year history, only four walrus calves have been born. But, SeaWorld Orlando has raised 10 orphaned walrus calves, including the new calf's father, with the permission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
As of Friday, Kaboodle and her calf were still staying behind-the-scenes as the baby gains weight and learns to swim -- which could take about a month.
Walrus gestation lasts about 15 to 16 months. And, newborn calves weigh anywhere from 99 to 165 pounds. They can be three to four feet long.
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