Sad sea lion gets a new companion

Both are Patagonian sea lions

A bereaved sea lion which has been grieving since his mate of 15 years died last year, has finally found a new companion.

Staff at the seal sanctuary at Gweek in Cornwall had described Carus and his late partner, Dipsy, as inseparable.

But now a new mate, 17-year-old Boadicea, has arrived from Dudley Zoo.

Rachael Vine from the sanctuary, said: "Boadicea is settling in very well, there's been lots of playing and kissing in the water."

'A lot happier'

Carus is pleased at Boadicea's arrival but is still getting used to sharing his fish with her.

"His last partner was a little bit more submissive so he's not used to not getting the last fish, but his moods don't last for long," said Rachael.

"He's definitely a lot happier now he's got company."

It is unlikely that the pair will reproduce

The sanctuary contacted other zoos and sanctuaries around the UK in a bid to find a new mate for Carus.

Boadicea was at Dudley Zoo in the West Midlands where she was sharing a pool with two other females and a male.

"She wasn't getting much male attention as he was more interested in the other two so it's a good match all round," said Rachael.

Both are Patagonian sea lions, the second largest species of seal or sea lion in the world.

It is unlikely that the pair will reproduce because of their ages but Boadicea will be given a contraceptive pill when the breeding season starts to ensure she does not become pregnant.