Workout goals: Zoo seals stay fit by playing soccer

Tongass, Atty and Kaya benefit mentally and physically from soccer practice

The FIFA World Cup isn't the only must-see soccer event of the season. A team of harbor seals at the Oregon Zoo is learning to play the beautiful game - and care staff say they're getting great results.

"Harbor seals are really smart, and we want to keep them active and engaged," said Nicole Nicassio-Hiskey, a senior keeper who cares for the seals. "Training sessions like these help us build strong relationships with the seals, and it makes our time together that much more fun."

Keepers work with seals Tongass, Atty and Kaya on a series of behaviors corresponding to soccer skills such as rolling the ball, passing and shooting. As they go through their routine, the seals are rewarded with some of their favorite fishy snacks.

According to Nicassio-Hiskey, they're learning quickly and having a good time doing it - but the training also serves a higher purpose.

"Practicing these behaviors in a fun environment helps the harbor seals participate in their own care," she explained. "If they ever need a veterinary checkup or an X-ray, we can provide that without causing a lot of stress."

And there's no doubt the seals are enjoying themselves.

"Once they get that ball going and start heading 'downfield,' they can get pretty excited," Nicassio-Hiskey said. "They even play in the water!"

Soccer traditionally requires feet for kicking, but the seals have perfected their flipper game. And to see these marine mammals' true skills, guests should head to the underwater viewing windows, Nicassio-Hiskey says.

"Harbor seals are kind of awkward on land," she said. "They flop along on their bellies. But they are incredibly graceful underwater and can swim forward, backward and even upside-down."

In the ocean, harbor seals can dive from 300 to 1,500 feet. During a dive, their nostrils close and their heart rate slows from 100 beats per minute to about 5 beats per minute. These changes allow them to stay underwater as long as 35 minutes.

Harbor seals are found north of the equator in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, including along the Oregon Coast. During spring, pups begin to show up on the shore, resting on land while their mothers hunt for food. If you see a seal pup on the beach, stay 100 yards away, keep your dogs leashed and never pick one up or touch it. Mother seals may avoid returning to their young if people are present.