Minnesota Zoo Hosts Farewell Week for Departing Dolphins

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The will host a farewell week for its dolphins, who will soon leave Discovery Bay so the zoo can repair the exhibit.

The dolphins, Allie and Semo, won't return after the repairs are finished—in about a year—because they'll already have been in social groups and formed strong relationships with the other dolphins they're placed with, zoo officials say.

The zoo’s  dolphin training sessions will continue through Aug. 31, and the farewell week will take place Sept. 1-9, with dolphin open houses so more people can see Allie and Semo informally.

During the open house, people will be able to have their photograph superimposed on a background of Allie and Semo, sign a card for the dolphins, submit photos online on a virtual bulletin board. The zoo also will be taking plastic bags for recycling during the open houses.

"Allie and Semo have been members of our family for many years," a statement from the zoo says. "We are sad to see them go, but we are excited for their new adventures. We invite you to wish them well and thank them for all of the great memories."

The dates/hours for the open houses will be:
• 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 1 and Sept. 8 (Saturdays)
• 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept 2, 3 and 9 (Sunday, Monday-Labor Day, Sunday)
• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 4-7 (Tuesday through Friday)

For more information about the dolphins and why they are leaving the zoo, visit the zoo's website.