Aquarium Offers Sea Lion Kisses for Valentine's Day

(EndPlay Staff Reports) - A Newport, Ore., aquarium is offering visitors this week a Valentine's smooch that they won't soon forget.

The smoocher in this case is Max, a 500-pound sea lion. Visitors to the Oregon Coast Aquarium can pay a fee and get a kiss from Max while others can see him hold a red rose in his mouth or display a "Happy Valentine's Day" sign.

The aquarium stated there's also Max's backup, Lea, who hops in when Max needs to take a break.

Cindy Hanson, the aquarium's public relations manager, said Monday that this is an annual tradition the week of Valentine's Day. The sea lions are trained to put their snout on the person's face, while the person can either offer his or her face or opt for a "kiss" on the lips.

"They have never bitten or acted aggressive toward a visitor, but they are wild animals, so we do ask visitors to not reach out or touch them," she said of the sea lions.

The aquarium staff got the idea when they realized just now much people were delighted when trainers taught the sea lions how to give a "smooch" during the sea lion encounters.

"It seemed like a fun idea to offer the kisses on Valentine's Day, where people can reserve a sea lion kiss for a loved one," Hanson said.

She said it fits into the aquarium's mission to inspire conservation about the ocean and its inhabitants. People are encouraged to see the animals up close with the hope that they become inspired to "care about the ocean and all of its critters."

It also helps the animals, who she said are healthier and happier when they become physically and mentally engaged.

"Sea lions are smart and energetic; this is a great way to engage them and it also allows visitors to connect with one of the ocean's creatures," she said.

The training for such affection, which involves hand signals and a whistle, takes place with food as the motivation. Training happens around feeding time when the sea lions are eager to please.

Such a kiss is available throughout the week. More information on the best time to visit and take part, which is when they are being fed, is available by going to the aquarium's website .