The inaugural Seward Seabird Festival is June 21, 22, and 23. All weekend long, visit Seward for events celebrating the arrival of Alaska's seabirds through education, science, and art!     Click here to purchase a space on a private photography session in the aviary.    Click on an image below to download the pdf version.   

Silver Spring, Maryland (September 14, 2016)– The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) today announced that the Alaska SeaLife Center was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. “Only zoos and aquariums that meet the highest standards are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums,” said AZA Interim Present and CEO Kris Vehrs. “When people visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, they can be assured that they are supporting a facility that is a leader in providing quality care to wildlife, as well as committed to protecting these species’ future.” To be accredited, the Alaska SeaLife Center underwent a thorough review to assure it has and will continue to meet rising standards, which include animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years in order to be members of the Association.  The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation, including animal care and welfare; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and other areas.  Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal hearing of AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied.  Any institution that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission’s decision is made. Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation. AZA is the accrediting body for the top zoos and aquariums in the United States and eight other countries. Look for the AZA accreditation logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. The AZA is a leader in saving species and your link to helping animals all over the world. To learn more, visit www.aza.org. (Pictured in photo accepting certificate of accreditation, left to right: Brett Long, ASLC Husbandry Director; Lisa Hartman, ASLC Husbandry Manager; Tara Riemer, ASLC President and CEO; Chip Arnold, ASLC Operations Director)

May 26, 2023 – Over the last week, the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted three harbor seal pups to the Wildlife Response Program from the Copper River area. A female harbor seal pup was admitted on Sunday, May 21, 2023, and a male and female were admitted two days later on Tuesday, May 23, 2023. All three pups were reported to the ASLC’s 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline (1-888-774-7325) by separate callers. They were all spotted in different locations along the Copper River by different fishing boats, with no adult seals seen in the area. Newborn harbor seal pups cannot survive on their own so NOAA approved ASLC to respond to the three pups. The Alaska State Wildlife Troopers were essential in transporting all three pups from the fishing boats to the Cordova Airport to be flown to Anchorage. Once the pups arrived in Anchorage, NOAA staff transported the pups to meet the ASLC Wildlife Response Team along the Seward Highway in Turnagain Pass. After transferring the patients to an ASLC response vehicle, they then completed their journey to the Alaska SeaLife Center for treatment. The main concerns found by the ASLC veterinary team upon the initial admit exams for all three pups were malnourishment and dehydration. All three pups still had umbilical cords attached, signaling that all were less than a week old. The ASLC will continue to share updates on the patients’ status on their social media pages. The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can only provide care for stranded and injured marine animals with help from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of rehabilitating marine animals here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from supporters like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, PetZoo, Partners 4 Wildlife, Matson, GCI,  and a number of individual donors, funds, and foundations such as Stanley J Williams Fund, Mesara Family Foundation, and the NC Giving Fund. Call first! Before approaching an injured or stranded marine animal in Alaska, call the 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL(7325). 

May 31, 2023 – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a harbor seal pup to the Wildlife Response Program on May 28, 2023. This is the fourth harbor seal pup admitted to the Wildlife Response Program in the past week. The newborn female was observed on a crowded fishing beach for several hours, with no adult seals seen in the area. Concerned people fishing nearby called the ASLC 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline (1-888-774-7325), and after receiving NOAA approval, the animal was transported to the Center. Upon admit, the seal was estimated to be less than two days old. The main concerns found by the ASLC veterinary team during the admit exam were dehydration and its young age. The team is currently providing stabilizing treatments and monitoring her closely. The ASLC will continue to share updates on current patients on their social media pages and the Wildlife Response Rescue and Rehab Journal on the ASLC website. The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can only provide care for stranded and injured marine animals with help from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of rehabilitating marine animals here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from supporters like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, PetZoo, Partners 4 Wildlife, Matson, GCI,  and a number of individual donors, funds, and foundations such as Stanley J Williams Fund, Mesara Family Foundation, and the NC Giving Fund. Call first! Before approaching an injured or stranded marine animal in Alaska, call the  24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL(7325). 

June 14, 2023 -  Over a nine-day period in early June, five harbor seal pups were admitted to the Alaska SeaLife Center’s (ASLC) Wildlife Response Program. With these new patients joining four from late May, nine harbor seal pups are now under ASLC care.   Three newborns arrived in quick succession — a male from Pilot Point on June 2, a female from Homer on June 3, and a male from Kenai on June 4. The fourth and fifth pups — a male from Homer and a female from Nikiski — were admitted on June 8 and 10, respectively. All five seals were reported to the ASLC’s 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline (1-888-774-7325).   Upon discovery, each of the five pups was dehydrated, underweight, and had umbilical cords still attached, pointing to abandonment or separation shortly after birth. Newborn seal pups cannot survive long without maternal care, and in each of the five cases, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) approved rescue after determining the seals were unlikely to survive without intervention. With help and coordination from members of the public, ASLC volunteers, and NOAA officials, all five pups arrived safely at the Alaska Sealife Center for care.   Stabilizing treatments are currently being administered by wildlife response and veterinary staff, and the pups will remain under close watch to further understand the severity of their conditions. More information will follow after further monitoring and examination.   The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can only provide care for stranded and injured marine animals with help from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of rehabilitating marine animals here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from supporters like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, PetZoo, Partners 4 Wildlife, Matson, GCI, and a number of individual donors, funds, and foundations such as Stanley J. Williams Fund, Mesara Family Foundation, and the NC Giving Fund.

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is pleased to announce that Dr. Tuula Hollmen will be stepping into an expanded role that deepens our collaboration with UAF and more directly supports the future of our strategic plan. Starting May 12, 2025, Dr. Hollmen will serve as the VP of Life Sciences, overseeing Research, Veterinary Services, and Husbandry. She will retain her faculty designation at UAF.  In addition to being a renowned researcher, Tuula had previously served as the Science Director and played a key role in shaping the “Deep Blue 2020” strategic plan. In her more than 20 years at ASLC, Tuula has made significant contributions to our success and growth. Her leadership, vision, and dedication to scientific excellence helped drive forward key initiatives and foster a culture of innovation.  Tuula’s research has centered around ecology, physiology, and health of Arctic marine species. She is also passionate about community sciences, decision science, and connecting science with everyday life. She has published over 80 scientific articles and is honored to be a recipient of research and conservation awards, including the Alaska Ocean Leadership Award for Marine Science and the US Fish and Wildlife Service Recovery Champion Award. In her free time, she loves exploring the outdoors, playing music, and hanging out with family and friends. In this expanded leadership role, Tuula will focus on increasing alignment between the Research, Veterinary Services, and Husbandry teams. Many of Tuula’s projects already leverage the multitude of assets offered by ASLC. "I cannot imagine someone more suited than Dr. Tuula Hollmen to deepen collaboration and integration across our Life Sciences teams. Her expanded role will be pivotal in aligning our efforts and advancing the goals of our upcoming strategic plan," said Dr. Wei Ying Wong, President and CEO of the Alaska SeaLife Center. “With Dr. Hollmen's proven leadership, scientific expertise, and passion for innovation, I am confident that ASLC will continue to expand our leadership in marine health research and animal care." Dr. Hollmen adds, “I am so excited to step into this new role and opportunity, to continue building and fostering internal and external collaborations, support our talented teams to reach their goals, and help move our strategic initiatives forward.” In the coming months, Tuula will transition into this new role with increasing responsibility.   

There's something fishy going on at the ASLC! Members of our education and aquarium teams will share an up-close look at some of the fish and invertebrates living here at the Center. Learn about the ASLC from the comfort of your own home - Virtually       For more info and to register: http://www.alaskasealife.org/virtualvisits Tuesday, December 1 - 3:00pm Episode 2: The Awesome Octopus Wednesday, December 2 - 11:00am Episode 2: The Awesome Octopus Tuesday, December 29 - 3:00pm Episode 3: Who is lurking in our Kelp Forest? Wednesday, December 30 - 11:00am Episode 3: Who is lurking in our Kelp Forest? Tuesday, January 26 - 3:00pm Episode 4: All Hail King Crabs! Wednesday, January 27 - 11:00am Episode 4: All Hail King Crabs! Tuesday, February 23 - 3:00pm Episode 5: Incredible Invertebrates! Wednesday, February 24 - 11:00am Episode 5: Incredible Invertebrates!

Help us celebrate the ocean this year by attending the Alaska SeaLife Center's Annual Alaska Marine Gala. Join us for a night of fun, food, and fundraising on February 8, 2020, at the Dena'ina Center in Anchorage. We promise an evening of heartfelt memories, wonder, humor, and appreciation for the generous support of Alaskans who continue to make the Alaska SeaLife Center what it is today! More details here.

This First Friday, we hope you enjoy the work of two of our long time supporters of the Center:   Enjoy fine arts and a book release from KC Crowley on our plaza outside the Center. Check out his shop here.   Amy Kruse of Love Alaska will also be showcased virtually. Check out her webshop here.

This popular mission-based event returns in April 2023. Guests will enjoy a special tour through the Center, stopping at designated locations while sampling food and wine pairings. Interact with Alaska SeaLife Center staff and learn how the Center is achieving its mission. Tickets are limited for this 21+ event. Sponsors get the first chance at limited tickets.    Click to purchase limited tickets.

It’s Plastic Free July! Join the effort to reduce your single-use plastic and help keep plastic out of Resurrection Bay by joining fellow community members and the ASLC Staff for three beach cleanups in the month of July. ASLC staff will have educational resources so you can learn how to reduce your own plastic consumption, prizes, and more at the community beach cleanups!   Saturday, July 31, 2024; 12 - 2 p.m. Meet at the tent near the Seward culvert (Scheffler Creek Bridge) No sign-up is required for participation. Guests under 18 must come with an adult or legal guardian. Gloves, trash bags, and hand sanitizing stations will be provided!

Small Fry School is a FREE educational program at the Alaska SeaLife Center, specially designed for preschool-aged children! Each week, you and your preschooler(s) can enjoy a variety of age-appropriate, interactive activities together! From crafts and exploration to storytelling and more, every session is thoughtfully designed to be both educational and fun.  Join our Small Fry School Facebook Group to access Pre-K activities from our education team and connect with other families! Stay updated with weekly schedules, curriculum, games, and more. For additional information email: smallfry@alaskasealife.org or call: 907-224-6306 *Participants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  

Did you know that Alaska is a haven for over 40 species of waterfowl? The state’s vast and relatively undisturbed ecosystems — including wetlands, tundra, and coastal areas — make it one of the most critical areas in North America for waterfowl conservation.   Learn more at the ASLC on January 17 and 18, where admission includes free crafts, activities, and educational chats!   Activity Schedule   - 12:30 & 2:30 pm: What makes waterfowl so unique in the bird world? - 1:00 & 3:00 pm: Become a "Seaduck Scientist!" - 2:00 & 3:30 pm: Learn to birdwatch!  

On November 8, 2025, explore the Alaska SeaLife Center after hours at Beers by the Bay. Sample beer, wine, cider, mead, and kombucha from Alaskan brewers, enjoy a generous appetizer buffet, and take part in fundraising games woven throughout the evening – a relaxed fall night of sipping and strolling in support of our work! Proceeds help us continue our mission work supporting marine life throughout Alaska. Click to purchase tickets here

It’s Plastic Free July! Join the effort to reduce your single-use plastic and help keep plastic out of Resurrection Bay by joining fellow community members and the ASLC Staff for beach cleanups in the month of July. ASLC staff will have prizes and educational resources so you can learn how to reduce your own plastic consumption! Saturday, July 12, 2025; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Check in at Seward Culvert No sign-up is required for participation. Guests under 18 must come with an adult or legal guardian. Gloves, trash bags, and hand sanitizing stations will be provided!   Other beach clean-ups this month: Monday, July 21, 2025; 5 - 7 p.m. Check in at Branson Pavilion

Seward Science Symposium Alaska SeaLife Center, Seward, AK The Seward Science Symposium highlights local science and research, including Indigenous-led work, and aims to build pride, stewardship, and stronger connections between our community and the environment. Join us for a day of local science: talks by researchers, educators, and community members, a midday poster session (bring lunch or grab-and-go at The Porthole), and an evening film screening with a light-appetizer reception.  This event is free and all are welcome! Click the link below for details and registration (recommended as seating is limited). Register and Learn More Presented by Stewards of the Bay, in partnership with Chugach Regional Resources Commission, University of Alaska Fairbanks, National Park Service, and the Alaska SeaLife Center.  

  Save the Date for the Alaska SeaLife Center Soirée!   The Alaska SeaLife Center’s annual Anchorage fundraising event returns to the Anchorage Museum to benefit marine research, education, and conservation. Guests will savor a bountiful selection of chef-inspired hors d’oeuvres, connect with others who share a deep passion for Alaska’s oceans, and enjoy the excitement of silent and live auctions featuring unique Alaskan experiences and treasures.   If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for this event, please email development@alaskasealife.org. Tickets will be on sale soon!

John first came to Alaska with the U.S. Coast Guard in 1985 and learned to operate a variety of vessels while servicing aids to navigation along the Gulf of Alaska coast.  After leaving the Coast Guard he earned a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Alaska Southeast, then a Master of Science degree through the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) while studying seabird ecology in Prince William Sound.  John has been working as a Research Associate at the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) since the summer of 2000.  His research focus is on the behavior and population dynamics of Steller sea lions and nesting seabirds, primarily through the use of remote video monitoring techniques.  He earned a Ph.D. degree from UAF with a dissertation study related to his sea lion research at ASLC.  John also continues to work as a part-time captain and naturalist for the tourist industry based in Seward, Alaska.  Behavior and population dynamics of Alaskan pinnipeds and seabirds Google Scholar

Alaska Species Explorer

Discovery Gift Shop   Take a part of the Alaska SeaLife Center with you! We have all of your favorite SeaLife plush animals, logo t-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, green-conscious goodies, and gifts handmade by Alaskan artists. Discovery Gift Shop is open year-round. General admission is not required for entry to Discovery Gift Shop.   Phone: (907) 224-6300 ext. 6204 Toll Free: (800) 224-2525 ext. 6204 Email: linda.summerst@eventnetwork.com 

Mission Statement The Alaska SeaLife Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems.  About The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only facility in Alaska that combines a public aquarium with marine research, education, and wildlife response.  While primarily dedicated to marine research and education, the nonprofit Center is the only permanent marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation facility in the state.  The Alaska SeaLife Center lies at "Mile 0" of the scenic Seward Highway on the shores of Resurrection Bay. Visitors have close encounters with puffins, octopus, harbor seals, sea lions, and other Alaska marine life while learning about the work our researchers conduct both in the field and in our laboratories.

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Overview The ASLC  Wildlife Response program responds to live and dead marine wildlife that has been abandoned, stranded, or injured throughout Alaska. The ASLC is the only institution authorized to rehabilitate live stranded marine mammals in the state. We operate under permits and agreements issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS). ASLC plays a critical role in responding to oil spills or other unusual events. In addition to covering the live animal response and care during the ‘busy’ season, May to September, ASLC remains in a ready state year round to provide basic animal care for oil-affected animals and deploy a mobile treatment and rehabilitation enclosure. The ASLC Wildlife Response Program is an important part of the Center's commitment to generate and share scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystem. The main goal of this program is to learn from live and dead stranded animals to better understand wild populations and maintain capacity to respond to natural or manmade disasters. We accomplish this by: Screening for conditions of concern Determining the health of individual animals Providing humane animal care Training staff and partners for response When possible, returning healthy animals to the wild