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 Semo has been at the Minnesota Zoo since 1991. He can be identified as a robust animal with a short rostrum or beak
and he is darker in color as compared to the rest of the dolphins.
Since his arrival at the Minnesota Zoo in 1991 Semo has sired two calves.
With an estimated birth date of 1964, Semo is thought to be one of the oldest males in human care to sire a calf.
Scientists observing dolphins have found that there is a dominance structure within their social groupings, however dominance within the group can change frequently. Here at the Zoo Semo often takes on the role of the dominant animal. You may observe him chasing other dolphins or displaying a behavior called"jaw clapping" which are often times associated dominance behaviors.
Despite the pressure of being a dominant animal, Semo still finds time to form relationships with the trainers. Whether its playing a game of ball retrieval or helping train a new trainer, Semo always manages to put a smile on his trainers face.
 Spree was born at the Minnesota Zoo on August 16, 2002. As her name suggests, she is quite energetic. She is often observed exploring and playing. Much of Spree's
learning is done by watching and then mimicking "Semo," and she is learning more and more behaviors for the dolphin show every day.
Each member of the training staff has spent time developing a strong relationship with her which is a building block in Spree’s training program. Like her mom Rio, she is a quick learner and likes to be spontaneous. One of her favorite behaviors is to emit
a bubble ring from her blowhole while at the windows. Watch for Spree displaying more behaviors in our shows as she progresses in her training.
April arrived at the Minnesota Zoo on January 14, 2008 from the Dolphin Connection in Florida. She will be on exhibit in Discovery Bay after she is fully acclimated to her new surroundings, caretakers, and resident dolphins Semo and Spree.
Owned by the Brookfield Zoo, April is 8 feet long, weighs approximately 430 pounds, and is distinguished by the dark grey colorations on her back along with the dark markings on her head. She successfully mothered three calves: Allie (also at the Minnesota Zoo), Keebler, and Wilson.
With an estimated birth year of 1967, April is approximately 41 years old.
April arrived at the Minnesota Zoo on January 14, 2008 from the Dolphin Connection in Florida. She will be on exhibit in Discovery Bay after she is fully acclimated to her new surroundings, caretakers, and resident dolphins Semo and Spree.
Owned by the Brookfield Zoo, Allie is 8 feet long, weighs approximately 400 pounds, and is distinguished by her long, slender rostrum and light grey coloration. Daughter to April (also at the Minnesota Zoo), she also mothered one calf, Balla.
Allie was born on April 1, 1987.
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