January 25, 2007

AQUARIUM ANNOUNCES DOLPHIN PREGNANCY

Vancouver, BC: Blood test results and an ultrasound show that Hana, the Vancouver Aquarium’s 12-year-old Pacific white-sided dolphin is pregnant. The average gestation period for these animals is 11 - 12 months, so a birth is expected this summer.

In October 2005, Hana arrived at the Aquarium with another Pacific white-sided dolphin, Helen, 19. Both came from Enoshima Aquarium in Japan, where they received extensive medical attention after becoming accidentally entangled in fishing nets. They have continued their rehabilitation and training in Vancouver. When Hana arrived, she was initially called by her rehabilitation number, Eight. Following a naming contest, she was renamed Hana, which means flower or blossom.

As a rehabilitation animal, Hana had minimal training when she arrived. But since that time, trainers have been working with her on animal husbandry and other training and she has advanced considerably.

Based on blood tests, an ultrasound and behavioural observations, Hana and the fetus appear to be in excellent health. Hana is still very active and shows little outward appearance of being pregnant. Once more is known, the Aquarium will provide visitors and the media with additional information.