Two South American seals arrive at Banham Zoo in Norfolk

Two South American fur seals, called Pablo and Toro, arrived at Banham Zoo earlier this month after leaving their previous home at Bristol Zoo. 

Deborah Harris, animal manager at Banham Zoo, said: “We are delighted to welcome Toro and Pablo to Banham Zoo, their individual characters are starting to show and they have already stolen the hearts of keepers and visitors alike. 

Deborah Harris, animal manager, said: “They have already stolen the hearts of keepers and visitors alike.” (Image: Banham Zoo)

“Poaching, environmental contaminants and commercial fishing are all threats to the wild South American fur seal population and so we are proud to have them at the zoo and to be raising awareness of the dangers they face in the wild.” 

READ MORE: Banham Zoo: 'New attractions will bring 200,000 new visitors to Norfolk'

South American fur seals are named for their thick layers of fur which help them to maintain their body temperatures in the cold seawater. 

Feeding time for the seals at Banham Zoo (Image: Marianne Pearson)

Their coats become fluffy when they spend extended periods out of the water. 

The arrival of the seals follows the closure of Sea Lion Bay last year after the death of 24-year-old Californian sea lion Filippa. 

The zoo's second sea lion, Gala, was relocated to Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire due to the need for a social environment.