Sea lion exhibit set to make a splash in Atlanta this week

The sea lions come from California's Marine Mammal Center, which put out a call for aid during a mass stranding of sea lions on beaches.

Last year was a bad one for sea lions, said Will Elgar, director of the aquarium's animal training for pinnipeds, the term for fin-footed marine mammals.

The sea lion exhibit includes mature animals that were rescued years ago as well, including Nav, an 11-year-old sea lion that weighs in the neighborhood of 500 pounds.

Elgar said the staff envisions the show as a dynamic experience, aimed at using entertainment to help educate the audience about the animals they have put so much effort into saving.