A zoo accrediting organization has given a 1-year extension to a zoo in central Illinois as the facility works on financial issues and finding a companion for its lone sea lion.

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums has put off approving a 5-year accreditation for the Miller Park Zoo. The organization says the zoo's sea lion needs a companion and the zoo needs written plans for education and conservation.

The accrediting group also says the zoo lacks financing to make needed improvements.

Zoo superintendent Jay Tetzloff says the zoo is making progress on the issues brought up by the association. For example, he says the zoo is working with a breeding program to attain another sea lion.