For the last 20 years, his daily presentations were enjoyed by thousands, but now, he is slowly easing into retirement.

Sunny the sea lion, who has been seen by over a half a million guests since 2004, is examined daily by trainers at the El Paso Zoo. His training sessions, which were open to the public, had him recycling, playing with a ball and helping teach the public about conservation and health.

"We build a very close bond with our animals, and because of that bond, we were able to determine that Sunny was ready to take it easy. He is really enjoying his semiretirement," said Area Supervisor Amanda Leverett.

Sunny will be 26 in June, and trainers said he's showing signs that he's ready to slow down. His hearing has declined, he shows signs of arthritis and is being monitored for heart disease.

Sea lion training sessions are strenuous exercise, and because of his age, it is becoming more difficult for him to be the star of both daily sea lion training presentations.

Guests will still be able to see Sunny once a day, as well 14-year-old Sushi, who has stepped in as Sunny's understudy. Zookeepers have noticed Sushi is excited about taking over one of the two daily presentations and have also noted her training behaviors have improved.

Sea lion training presentations take place daily at 10:50 a.m. and 2:50 p.m. at the El Paso Electric Sea Lion Amphitheater. Presentations are typically 10-20 minutes in length.