In the lively atmosphere, the performance neared its climax. Amidst enthusiastic applause, Ino the walrus, the star on stage, let out a sudden "poof!" spraying a jet of water at a "lucky" audience member. The soaked spectator joked they'd "tasted the sea," noting Ino's spray was salty. Far from annoyed, they were thrilled. For Ino, spraying its most enthusiastic and laughing fans is its highest form of expressing joy.
The enduring performer, the Aquarium's boss
Ino is Harbin Polarland's grand celebrity. Over the course of its career, it has become the Aquarium's beloved star, popular with all ages. Born with playful whiskers, they've grown longer with age; Ino is now robust, exuding mature stability. According to zookeepers, walruses in captivity typically live 40-50 years, placing Ino in its energetic "youth" phase.
To zookeepers, despite being a young adult walrus, Ino is still an innocent child. Zookeeper Gao Jun speaks of Ino with deep emotion, "Though Ino can't speak, its empathy is extraordinary. These moments confirm companionship is a two-way street."
Gao once took a week off due to illness. On his return, Ino, usually mischievous, quietly swam to him, gently nudged his hand, and even blew an off-key whistle, as if comforting him. Seeing the endearing walrus Russ in Zootopia 2 immediately reminded Gao of Ino, seeing a spitting image.
Gao's bond with Ino began years ago. As a child, captivated by Ino's antics in the walrus theatre, he never imagined growing up to be Ino's zookeeper, a bond he deeply cherishes.
Meticulous care and health management
Zookeepers are not just Ino's friends; they are also expert caregivers. Weighing over 650 kg, Ino's meticulously planned diet includes 25 kg of fresh fish (capelin, herring), plus shellfish, oysters, and shrimp. Beyond main meals, there are seasonal snacks with a balanced nutritional profile.
For Ino's health, Polarland has a professional veterinary team for regular, comprehensive checks. Zookeepers meticulously record daily food intake, activity, and waste to assess health. Daily, they disinfect Ino's pool morning and evening to prevent bacterial spread.
Diligent "worker" with flawless performance synergy
Ino's "job" involves two 10-minute performances daily. Its "fee" is fresh fish. It sometimes "works overtime," like during Chinese New Year, performing with its companion, Eva, to deliver festive greetings.
Gao is not just Ino's zookeeper but also its performance partner. He explains their shows primarily let Ino express itself, with hosts cleverly coordinating. This rapport leads to spectacular performances. On stage, Ino unceremoniously sprays hosts who call it a "little chubby," yet never "attacks" Gao, making the show more dynamic. They showcase Ino's natural abilities rather than forcing new skills. Gao recalls that Ino didn't originally balance balls. A zookeeper threw one into its pool for fun, and Ino accidentally discovered the skill. As it became proficient, they integrated it into the show.
Million-follower influencer, promoting environmental awareness
Beyond the theatre, Ino is a social media influencer with over 1 million followers and dozens of viral posts. Polarland's founding purpose was to educate the public on ecological and animal conservation. Global warming and increased emissions threaten the habitats of polar and marine animals.
Ino's popularity acts as a bridge for Polarland to promote marine ecological protection. Its influencer account shares "Ino's Environmental Tips" videos that offer engaging, easy-to-understand conservation advice, urge reduced marine litter, and remind us that protecting the ocean protects us.
(Reporter & Cameraperson: Yu Haijiang; Editor: Rainy; English Editor: Darius)
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