Welcome to Yorkshire
Inspiration • July 24th, 2026
|The Yorkshire Wildlife Park has recently welcomed a new member to its family—a male sea lion named Cisco. At just 8 years old, Cisco made quite the journey, travelling nearly 800 miles from the south of France to his new home in Doncaster. His arrival is part of the park's ongoing commitment to conservation and education, making it an exciting time for visitors and animal lovers alike.
Cisco's Journey and Arrival
Cisco's journey was facilitated by transport specialists who ensured that he arrived safely and comfortably. Since his arrival, he has been settling into his new surroundings behind the scenes. The park's team has provided him with a smaller pool where he can get acquainted with the scents and sounds of the other sea lions, which is an important step in his adjustment process.
Integration into the Sea Lion Colony
As Cisco becomes part of the park's breeding programme, he will be gradually introduced to the existing sea lion colony, which includes seven resident sea lions: Oakley, Hanno, Maui, Lara, Bailey, Coral, and Stanley. These sea lions reside in a specially designed habitat known as Point Lobos, which was created in 2021. This expansive area is inspired by the natural home of sea lions in Monterey Bay, California, featuring dramatic landscapes that mimic the sea lions' wild habitat.
Dr Charlotte MacDonald, the Director of Animals at the park, expressed her excitement about Cisco's arrival, stating,
“We're delighted to welcome Cisco to the Park. He travelled really well and has settled in nicely since arriving."
"He has already met Bailey and her daughter Coral through the mesh, and then they swam together for a while in the pool. But we will take everything slowly as every animal is different, and we'll let Cisco do everything at his own pace."
What to Expect for Visitors
Visitors to the Yorkshire Wildlife Park can look forward to catching glimpses of Cisco as he gradually becomes familiar with his new home. The park has a strong focus on conservation, offering a unique walk-through experience that allows guests to come face to face with a variety of at-risk species, including Polar Bears, Black Rhinos, Giraffes, and African Painted Dogs. Cisco's introduction to the colony is just one of the many exciting developments happening at the park this summer.
Recent Additions to the Park
Cisco is not the only new arrival at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park this season. The park recently celebrated the birth of four adorable cheetah cubs, who can now be seen frolicking in Cheetah Territory. Additionally, a baby Titi Monkey has joined the South American walkthrough known as Amazonas, and three Lar gibbons have made their home in the Malaysian Singing Forest. These new additions highlight the park's dedication to wildlife conservation and education.
More Than Just Animals
The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is more than just a place to see animals. It also features The Hex Hotel and The Yorkshire Hive, a shopping, dining, and entertainment village that provides a complete experience for visitors. Whether it's enjoying a meal, shopping for unique gifts, or exploring the wildlife, there's something for everyone at the park.
