Colchester Zoo Says Goodbye to Beloved Sea Lions Sydney and Milan

Colchester Zoo has shared the sad news that their last two sea lions, Sydney and Milan, were put to sleep on Friday 6 March 2026 following a decline in their health due to old age.

Both animals had reached a geriatric stage of life and had been closely monitored by the zoo’s veterinary and animal care teams. The decision was made compassionately and in the interest of their welfare when it became clear their quality of life could no longer be maintained.

Staff at the zoo described the loss as deeply emotional, with Sydney and Milan having formed strong bonds with their keepers over many years.

Much-loved characters at the zoo

Sydney and Milan were among the zoo’s most recognisable animals, delighting visitors for years with their personalities, playful behaviour and impressive swimming skills.

Like many animals cared for by Colchester Zoo, they received dedicated medical care and monitoring as they grew older. However, keepers say there eventually comes a point where the kindest decision is to prevent further suffering.

The loss comes shortly after the passing of another sea lion, Winnipeg, earlier this year.

Sydney – the confident leader

Sydney was known by keepers as the sensible and confident one of the group.

She loved her training sessions and was always keen to learn something new, especially when working one-to-one with her keepers. At the same time, she could also show a stubborn side when she decided she wasn’t in the mood to cooperate.

Other sea lions naturally gravitated towards her and often followed her lead around the habitat.

Sydney especially loved the summer months, when she could be found relaxing on her favourite rock — affectionately nicknamed “Sydney’s Armchair” by the animal care team.

Milan – the quiet golden girl

Milan was known for her beautiful blonde coat, which shone in the sunlight.

She was the shyest member of the group and often approached new things cautiously, with a particular dislike for wasps. But over the years she grew in confidence, something her keepers loved watching.

Milan preferred to take life at her own pace — which staff joked was “about the speed of a snail.”

She enjoyed exploring the bottom of the pool in search of toys and had a unique vocal sound that her keepers described as sounding a little like Homer Simpson mid-burp.

It was unmistakably Milan.

Remembering Winnipeg

Earlier this year the zoo also said goodbye to Winnipeg, another sea lion who had lived at Colchester Zoo for more than 20 years.

Believed to have been around 25 years old, Winnipeg was known for her loud calls and energetic personality.

Keepers often described her as having no concept of personal space, frequently choosing to lie on top of the other sea lions when it was time to rest.

Her playful nature earned her nicknames such as “Witchy Winni” during Halloween and even “Winni from Winchester” when representing Team GB during Olympic-themed events.

A difficult time for the zoo

The loss of Sydney, Milan and Winnipeg marks the end of an era for the sea lion habitat at Colchester Zoo.

For many visitors across north Essex, watching the sea lions swim and play was a highlight of a day at the zoo.

While their pool may now be quieter, their personalities and memories will remain a special part of the zoo’s history — both for the animal care team who looked after them and for the countless visitors who watched them over the years.