Kaya, the Middle East's first walrus calf, doing well at Seaworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

In an unlikely location, the desert of Abu Dhabi, a walrus calf named Kaya was born at SeaWorld Yas Island. The park's senior zoological director, Scott McCoy, shared that the birth of Kaya, the Middle East's first walrus calf, is a significant milestone after a 15-month pregnancy. Kaya, weighing around 95 kilograms, is thriving and adapting to her new environment.

The park's senior director emphasized the meticulous planning and preparation that went into creating a habitat that closely mirrors a walrus's natural Arctic surroundings. Despite the desert setting, the park's conditions closely replicate the Arctic habitat, from lighting to water temperature. Kaya's mother, Smooshi, who was originally from Canada, has been a great mother, showing Kaya the necessary balance of attention and independence.

Pacific walruses, of which Kaya is one, are considered keystone species, playing a crucial role in educating guests about their ecosystem's health. Kaya's name, meaning "little mountain" in Inuit mythology, was chosen through an online poll. The park is open to the possibility of another walrus calf being born in the future, should nature decide to repeat the feat.