Meet Uki, Orlando’s aquatic answer to Moo Deng

SeaWorld Orlando recently welcomed a rescued Pacific walrus calf who was found stranded on a shore in Alaska into its care.

Alaska SeaLife Center found the rare walrus calf orphaned and abandoned on a beach in Utquiagvik in July. After she received rescue and rehabilitative care from the facility, the calf was deemed non-releasable by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, according to SeaWorld officials.

The calf has been named Uki, short for Ukiaq, which translates to "autumn" in the language of Iñupiaq people native to the area of northern Alaska where she was found. She arrived at her long-term home at SeaWorld Orlando on Sept. 18, serving as an emblem of the rich culture and traditions of the native Alaskan people.

Ukiaq will not be introduced to the sea life park’s guest-facing habitats until she has had the opportunity to "spend time acclimating to her new surroundings" and receive continuous care to support her growth and well-being, SeaWorld says.

"Uki's journey to SeaWorld Orlando is only the beginning of her new chapter," said Joseph Gaspard, vice president of zoological operations at SeaWorld Orlando, in a news release. "We want to give her time to settle into her new home, and once she's ready, guests will have the unique opportunity to meet this extraordinary calf and learn more about our conservation efforts in the Arctic region."

SeaWorld Orlando was selected to be Uki's new home because of the staff's experience and knowledge of walrus care, along with the walrus herd present at the park. Both will provide her with the best nurturing environment and developmental care, including another female walrus that is able to act as a surrogate for Uki.

As she grows accustomed to her new home and recovers, Ukiaq will serve as an ambassador for her rare species, informing the public of the challenges and characteristics of Pacific walruses in the wild.