BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Mia, a California sea lion at The Aquarium of Niagara, has died.
She was first rescued off the coast of California in June 2014, suffering from pneumonia and possibly domoic acid poisoning. She was brought to a care center where she was deemed non-releasable due to her health.
During her time at the aquarium, Mia was a favorite of guests and staff alike. She liked relaxing in the current of her enclosure, swimming through the tunnel under the stage and participating in daily sea lion presentations.
"I have been working with Mia since the day she joined our Aquarium family, and I've watched her grow and develop alongside countless animal care specialists whose lives and careers have been shaped by their work with this incredible animal," said Hallie Torre, associate curator of marine mammals and birds. "Mia brought joy to many, and she will be greatly missed."
Mia was estimated to be at least 15 years old when she died.
Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.
