Watch: This adorable baby sea lion is turning heads with her underwater moves

Who knew a baby sea lion could turn into the next big underwater sensation? Well, that’s exactly what’s happening at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma, Washington. Pepper, a 9-month-old sea lion, is amazing with her acrobatic skills, impressing both visitors and staff. With each playful spin and graceful movement, this young sea lion is proving that there’s more to her than just being adorable.
Pepper’s latest underwater display is capturing attention for all the right reasons. Filmed gracefully spinning through the water, Pepper twirls a strip of kelp underwater, creating smooth, rhythmic circles. Her movements are graceful and artistic, like a ribbon dancer’s routine.
According to a latest video presented by Associated Press, Noelle Tremonti, a staff biologist at the aquarium, shared, “We always joke a little bit that she’s acting as a ribbon dancer because it does look so artistic under the water and shockingly beautiful under the water as well. But also just makes me really happy to see her interacting with enrichment in such a focused way.” These impressive performances are not just fun to watch– they also help Pepper learn and grow. The zoo provides artificial kelp, allowing her to practice natural behaviours like playing and exploring her surroundings.
Watch the video here:

At such a young age, Pepper still relies on her mother’s milk, but that hasn’t stopped her from being curious and playful. A lot of her time is spent interacting with the kelp strips, which are the perfect size for her to grab with her mouth and flippers. It’s not just about having fun; these playful moments help Pepper practice essential skills like manipulating objects, which she would need to do in the wild.
“She will dedicate a good portion of her day to finding different things to do with the kelp strips,” Tremonti said. “It’s really fun to watch.” It’s clear that Pepper is not only learning but also enjoying herself in the process. Her inquisitive nature is evident as she spends time experimenting with new ways to play and explore, further strengthening her relationship with the environment around her.
Pepper is growing fast! Weighing 74 pounds (33.5 kg), she’s already taking steps toward adulthood. She recently ate her first fish, a big milestone for a young sea lion, but she still prefers playing with her kelp toys over eating fish.
This highlights a fun fact about Pepper: she may be maturing physically, but her heart is still very much in the playful exploration stage. Her love for the kelp shows her curiosity and the strong bond she shares with her caretakers.
Pepper’s birth is especially meaningful to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. She is the first sea lion to ever be born at the zoo in its 120-year history, which makes her an important figure for both the staff and the visitors. Her journey from a newborn pup to an acrobatic little star has become a point of pride, not only for the zoo but also for everyone who has had the privilege of watching her grow.