SCHMOO BIDS ADIEU—After a long and distinguished career at the Moorpark College Teaching Zoo, Schmoo the sea lion died last week of age-related complications. She was 32. A sea lion typically lives between 20 and 30 years. After nearly 30 years of service to the Exotic Animal Training and Management Program at Moorpark College, sea lion Schmoo died last week from agerelated complications.

Schmoo was acquired by the program in 1981 as part of the animal collection in support of the two-year training program at Moorpark College.

During her years in the program, Schmoo was instrumental in teaching college students who were preparing for a career in animal training and management as well as grade school children who enjoyed her performances.

Through her trainers, Schmoo promoted the understanding of animal conservation and the importance of the preservation of natural habitats.

Many students were drawn to the program by the opportunity to work with the sea lion.

The program was established in 1974 and is the only one of its kind in the United States. The animal collection, devoted exclusively to training students, numbers 135.

The zoo is open to the public and serves as a teaching and recreational resource for Moorpark and adjacent communities.