Zoo seals stay fit by playing soccer: Workout goals

The FIFA World Cup isn’t the only must-see soccer event of the season. A team of harbor seals at the Oregon Zoo is learning to play the beautiful game — and care staff say they’re getting great results.

“Harbor seals are really smart, and we want to keep them active and engaged,” said Nicole Nicassio-Hiskey, a senior keeper who cares for the seals. “Training sessions like these help us build strong relationships with the seals, and it makes our time together that much more fun.”

Keepers work with seals Tongass, Atty and Kaya on a series of behaviors corresponding to soccer skills such as rolling the ball, passing and shooting. As they go through their routine, the seals are rewarded with some of their favorite fishy snacks.

According to Nicassio-Hiskey, they’re learning quickly and having a good time doing it — but the training also serves a higher purpose.

“Practicing these behaviors in a fun environment helps the harbor seals participate in their own care,” she explained. “If they ever need a veterinary checkup or an X-ray, we can provide that without causing a lot of stress.”

And there’s no doubt the seals are enjoying themselves. “Once they get that ball going and start heading ‘downfield,’ they can get pretty excited,” Nicassio-Hiskey said. “They even play in the water!”

Soccer traditionally requires feet for kicking, but the seals have perfected their flipper game. And to see these marine mammals’ true skills, guests should head to the underwater viewing windows, Nicassio-Hiskey says.

Harbor seals are kind of awkward on land,” she said. “They flop along on their bellies. But they are incredibly graceful underwater and can swim forward, backward and even upside-down.”

To see video, go to https://bit.ly/SealSoccer .