Sri Lanka’s only sea lion, Botham, has been given a new lease on life after successfully undergoing specialized surgery to remove a cancerous condition at the Dehiwala National Zoological Gardens.
The 16-year-old female sea lion, originally brought to Sri Lanka from Nagoya Zoo in Japan under an animal exchange programme, was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, a form of cancer.
According to Dr. Dhamikka Dasanayake, Director of Animal Health and Nutrition at the Dehiwala Zoo, the condition posed a significant challenge as such cases in sea lions are often treated through humane euthanasia in many countries.
Determined to save Botham, the zoo’s veterinary team, together with the Department of National Zoological Gardens and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, sought international expertise. A specialized veterinary team from Hong Kong arrived in Sri Lanka on July 28 and carried out the operation under general anaesthesia on July 30.
Zoo officials said the surgery was successful and Botham is currently recovering well under close veterinary supervision.
Dr. Dasanayake praised the efforts of Dr. Dinuka Sonnadara, the veterinarian responsible for the sea lion section, as well as the Director General, Ministry officials, local veterinary experts and the international team for their contribution to the operation.
The Hong Kong veterinary specialists reportedly provided their expertise free of charge and assisted with treatments and medicines that were not available locally.
Botham, who has long been a favourite among visitors for her performances and playful nature, will remain away from public demonstrations until she makes a full recovery.
With sea lions generally living for around 15 to 20 years, veterinarians hope the successful treatment will allow Botham to enjoy a longer and healthier life.
Botham is currently the only sea lion at the Dehiwala Zoo, following the death of the male sea lion approximately two years ago.
