animatedcollapse.addDiv('A', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init()         Meet Heather Coletti Marine Ecologist, National Park Service SW Alaska Inventory & Monitoring Network Heather's role in Gulf Watch Alaska: Nearshore Program Principal Investigator Important skills for her position: "Curiosity is a big one, I think.  And a willingness to work in uncomfortable conditions - and long hours." Challenges in her work: "Having just that one opportunity to collect the data, and what does that really mean in a whole year?"   Heather's advice to young people interested in science: "Volunteer. You know, school, of course, is important, but the sooner you can volunteer and get out in the field and start to get to know folks, the opportunities will present themselves.  We always have work, we always have questions, and if you are willing to get out there, opportunities will come."   Heather Coletti describes her favorite thing about working with sea otters and how she got interested in nearshore ecology. (0:54) Video Transcript My favorite daily duties… I would say one of my favorites is we do a lot of sea otter foraging work, data collection, so with high-powered telescopes we’re watching these animals eat because they bring everything up to the surface. It’s always a surprise, it’s challenging and really interesting. I’ve always been drawn to the ocean. Some circumstances just sort of present themselves professionally of who you meet, and it really does matter who your mentors are. And if you’re a good mentor I think whatever you’re interested in… and I had a great mentor, and his interest was in the nearshore, particularly in sea otters but just the ecology in general, and it stayed with me.     Who is watching the Gulf?    

Starting July 23 Summer 2020 Availability - Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays & Sundays: 3:30 pm  Duration: Approximately 30-minute tour Maximum of 5 people per tour - minimum age 13* Meet Mara, our resident Steller sea lion mom and her pup, born June 26 on this once-in-a-lifetime exclusive tour.   Have a chance to feed Mara and watch her interact with her new pup. Learn from our marine mammal staff what it takes to be a good Steller sea lion mom and what it was like welcoming the pup into the world. Don't miss this first time offered interaction that will be available for a very limited time. For the safety and well-being of our animal residents there is no photography allowed on this tour. Flat-Rate Price: $399.95 per group of 1-5 people - members get a 20% discount, buy your membership today and use the benefits immediately *Guests under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult Tickets only valid for date selected. Tickets must be purchased at least one hour in advance. All guests must wear a face covering on this tour. If you cannot wear a face covering due to a medical condition, please email onlinesales@alaskasealife.org to arrange an accommodation before booking the tour.

Seward, AK – September 11, 2014– The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) transferred a female sea otter pup to its I.Sea.U this week.  Visitors to the Center can watch the activities of the otter and its care-givers through viewing windows near the Discovery Touch Pool. The pup, now a healthy 10-pound, 2-month old female, was found stranded as a newborn in Port Moller, Alaska after being entangled in a fishing net.  The otter was brought to the Alaska SeaLife Center on July 12 where she immediately began receiving intensive, hands-on care. Sea otter pups must be fed every two hours and constantly groomed to keep their fur clean.  Due to the maternal care required by young otters, pups this age are deemed non-releasable by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).  Sea otters eat approximately 25-30% of their weight in food daily. The pup’s current diet consists mainly of sea otter formula and a small amount of solid food, such as clams, squid, and capelin.  As she grows older, solids are being slowly increased to incorporate a larger variety including shrimp and crab. Halley Werner, Stranding Supervisor at the Center states, “The transition into I.Sea.U is the next step for this young otter to become more independent. This will allow her to care for herself, with continued around-the-clock support from our animal care team.”  The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only permanent marine rehabilitation center in Alaska, responding to wildlife such as sea otters and harbor seals. The Center’s Wildlife Response Program responds to sea otters with the authorization of USFWS. Once a sea otter is admitted to the Center, it is closely monitored by the veterinary and animal care staff at ASLC. Alaska SeaLife Center President and CEO Tara Riemer explained, “We have no federal or state funding to care for sea otters, and we rely on donations to keep this program going. We especially thank Shell Exploration and Production, ConocoPhillips Alaska, and BP Alaska for their generous contributions to the Center in support of wildlife rescue and oil spill response readiness.” The Alaska SeaLife Center is a private non-profit research institution and visitor attraction, which generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems.  The Alaska SeaLife Center is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. For additional information, visit www.alaskasealife.org. The Alaska SeaLife Center operates a 24-hour hotline for the public to report stranded marine mammals or birds,and encourages people whohave found a stranded or sick marine animal to avoid touching or approaching the animal.  Call first!  1-888-774-SEAL

Seward, Alaska (March 18, 2015) - The Alaska SeaLife Center got a special delivery last week! Mara, an 11-year-old female, is the latest addition to ASLC's Steller sea lion family. Mara arrived on February 12 from the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut. She was originally part of a research study at the University of British Columbia and Vancouver Aquarium. Here at the Center, Mara will join our Steller sea lion breeding program. The study focuses on the maternal care of females, as part of the Center’s research to better understand this endangered species. ASLC Marine Mammal Scientist Dr. Lori Polasek and her team are looking at the energetic cost of raising a pup from conception to weaning through hormone levels, pregnancy detection, and pup care. So far, Mara has been exploring her new home and loves to play with her enrichment toys. Our animal care team will slowly introduce her to other resident sea lions before putting her on habitat. Dr. Polasek and her team are hoping for a successful encounter this summer with male Steller sea lion Pilot.              

The Alaska SeaLife Center is currently caring for a blind harbor seal. Bryce was the last harbor seal pup rescue of 2014 after being found at Land's End in Homer, AK. Because of his blindness, Bryce has been deemed non-releasable by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-National Marine Fisheries Service. Veterinary staff believe he suffered head trauma that was the likely cause of his vision loss. While harbor seals are normally quite shy and skittish, staff have been pleasantly surprised by Bryce's spirit of adventure as he quickly explores pools, enrichment items, and other changes to his environment. Staff utilize Bryce's inquisitive nature and heightened reliance on sound when teaching him husbandry behaviors, such as hand-feeding and targeting. Since he cannot see, staff rattle a "shaker" in place of a target buoy. This allows Bryce to use audio cues rather than the customary visual cue. These behaviors help Bryce in adjusting to environmental changes and make veterinary exams easier. Veterinary staff have noticed a slight improvement in his sight, however, only in one eye. His progress under human care is very encouraging, but we think Bryce's biggest accomplishment is the impressive ability to use his other senses and thrive in his environment. Bryce will stay at the Alaska SeaLife Center until a permanent home is determined.

The Alaska SeaLife Center is recruiting RV’ers for Interpretation, Ticketing, and Cafe volunteer positions for the 2016 season. An RV camping space with electric & water hook ups will be provided! Before volunteering you will participate in training and receive additional information on each position. ·         Interpretation - As an interpretation volunteer you will help the Alaska SeaLife Center guests connect with our animals and appreciate our mission. This will be accomplished by interpreting live and static exhibits for our guests. You may also have daily interaction with education, exhibits, husbandry, and research personnel. ·         Ticketing/Café Cashier – As a cashier you would be responsible for front-line customer service, ticket sales, and café duties at the Center.   Applicants must be able to provide their own camping unit. An RV site will be provided on the shores of beautiful Resurrection Bay, within walking distance of the Center. The site is in the City of Seward waterfront campground and includes water, electricity, and refuse removal (there is a $5 dump fee). In exchange the Center asks for 20 hours of volunteering per week per person for a minimum of 6 weeks. The volunteer positions are open from May through September. The position duration is based on acceptable performance and will be reviewed for renewal. Depending on the volunteer position you are appointed to you may be subject to a background check. No salary is provided. Please visit our website at www.alaskasealife.org under volunteer for a list of benefits of volunteering at the Center.    About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. ASLC's mission is to generate and share knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org. 

Seward, Alaska (August 25, 2016) – After much anticipation, the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is pleased to announce the public debut of Perl, a Steller sea lion pup born at the ASLC on July 1, 2016. Visitors to the Center will have the opportunity to see Perl with mother Eden on five weekends (Fri/Sat/Sun) from 11:00am to 2:00pm, beginning Friday, August 26 through Sunday, September 25.  “Perl’s debut is a highly anticipated event,” said President and CEO Tara Riemer. “We are thrilled to be able to share this special moment with our visitors, members and friends.”  Born to 16-year old Eden and 7-year old Pilot, Perl is named after Perl Island, one of the Chugach Islands in the Gulf of Alaska. She is the third Steller sea lion born at the ASLC. Similar to Perl’s half-siblings—3-year-old Ellie and 2-year-old Forrest—Perl will assist scientists in understanding the physiological requirements of a healthy Steller sea lion. “There has been a lot of hard work and preparation leading up to Perl’s successful birth, and the staff is excited at the important addition she will be to our research. We are also very grateful to the mammal husbandry staff here at the ASLC for their care, dedication and enthusiasm to making this work possible,” said ASLC Research Associate Renae Sattler.  Permitted under the National Marine Fisheries Service, the ASLC study seeks to further understand the female reproductive cycle in hopes of identifying causes contributing to the declining population trends observed in the wild. Some populations are currently listed as endangered. Initial studies focused on the reproductive cycle and tracking the health of the female throughout pregnancy. Recently this study was expanded to include collaboration with the University of British Columbia to investigate energetic costs of pregnancy and lactation in adult females, and the energetic needs of pups for healthy growth.   About the ASLC  Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. 

Veterinarians at ASLC express concern heading into 2016 stranding season Seward, Alaska (March 14, 2016) - Veterinarians at the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) say there is every indication that 2016 will be another record year for their Wildlife Response Program following admission of two sea otter pups in the past month.   Already this year the non-profit organization, which is the only permitted marine mammal wildlife rehabilitation entity in Alaska, has recorded 80 reports alone involving otters, and that is before the summer stranding season has even begun. That number compares with a total 300 otters reported to the Center in 2015, 116 of which became cases the Center was directly involved in, peaking last September at a rate 16 times higher than for the same period in 2014.   Otter EL1620 was received into the Center from Cordova on March 7, following on the heels of otter EL1616, a pup stranded in the Kachemak Bay area. While sea otter EL1620 was observed to be a healthy size and weight, its stranding location and other factors raised concerns for the ASLC Wildlife Response Team who ultimately determined to admit EL1620. Pup EL1616 was observed in waters off Homer, appearing malnourished with other signs of stranding and an imminent threat of killer whales surrounding the pup.   Sea otters under six months require 24-hour watch. Typically ASLC staff expect to be on 24/7 duty during the summer stranding season; however, over the past ten month period the ASLC Wildlife Response Team has been on the mandatory 24-hour watch continuously with the exception of 21 days.   According to ASLC veterinarian Carrie Goertz, there is a general increase across all causes of otter deaths and there are some indications that something new may be exacerbating the situation.   “It’s hard to say how much impact the uptick in algal blooms or the El Nino pattern is having,” says Goertz. “However, the feeling is that it must be having some impact which is distressing since both are expected to continue this year.”   Currently the ASLC has six sea otters in residence. With the beginning of the stranding season later this spring, staff fully anticipates the trend to continue.   The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only permanent marine rehabilitation center in Alaska, responding to wildlife such as seals, walrus and sea otters. The Center’s Wildlife Response Program responds to sea otters with the authorization of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Once a sea otter is admitted to the Center, it is closely monitored by the veterinary and animal care staff at ASLC.   Alaska SeaLife Center President and CEO Tara Riemer explained, “We have no federal or state funding to care for sea otters, and we rely on donations to keep this program going. We especially thank individual Alaskans all around the state as well as Shell Exploration and Production and ConocoPhillips Alaska for their generous contributions to the Center in support of wildlife rescue and oil spill response readiness.”   The Alaska SeaLife Center operates a 24-hour hotline for the public to report stranded marine mammals or birds, and encourages people who have found a stranded or sick marine animal to avoid touching or approaching the animal. Call first! 1-888-774-SEAL.     About the ASLC   Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.   High resolution photos and full story available from media@alaskasealife.org; 907-224-6397.    

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)

SEWARD, ALASKA (May 27, 2016) - Longer days mean more time for fun in Alaska, and beginning today the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is expanding its hours to help guests make the most of them. Summer hours from May 27 to September 4 are: Friday through Sunday: 8:00am - 9:00pm and Monday through Thursday: 9:00am - 9:00pm. But that’s not all! By popular demand, also beginning today, Sea Otter Encounter tours are increasing to two per day: 2:00pm and 7:00pm. Learn more about these engaging, adorable Alaska marine ambassadors by joining animal caregivers to observe a feeding or animal enrichment session in the outdoor otter pool. This 30-minute encounter can accommodate up to 12 people per tour with a minimum age of 6 years old; all guests under age 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. The Sea Otter Encounter is $24.95 each for ages 13 and older, and $19.95 each for ages 6-12. Continuing ASLC engagement opportunities are listed below. The Behind the Scenes Tour allows guests a peek into the world behind the ASLC galleries and opportunity to explore animal care areas, research programs, and outreach efforts with knowledgeable staff. This 60-minute tour is offered daily at 10:00am, 1:30pm, and 4:30pm and can accommodate a maximum of 12 people, with a minimum age of 12 years old.* Behind the Scenes tours are $14.95 per person. Join birds and their keepers in a Puffin Encounter in the aviary to learn about ASLC research and breeding programs. This 60-minute tour is offered at 11:00am and 2:00pm and can accommodate a maximum of 4 people, with a minimum age of 10 years old.* Puffin Encounter tours are $74.95 per person. The Marine Mammal Encounter invites guests to join the ASLC animal care team to see how they train, feed, and care for resident seals. This 60-minute tour is offered daily at 12:00pm and 3:00pm and can accommodate a maximum of 5 people per tour, with a minimum age of 10 years old.* Marine Mammal Encounter tours are $74.95 per person. Shake “hands” with a giant Pacific octopus in the Octopus Encounter, and learn more about these mysterious invertebrates. This 60-minute tour is offered daily at 1:00pm and can accommodate a maximum of 5 people per tour, with a minimum age of 6 years old.* Octopus Encounter tours are $74.95 per person. Reservations are recommended for all encounters and tours, 1-888-378-2525. Prices listed do not include tax. All tours and encounters require purchase of general admission. *All guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org. High resolution photos available from media@alaskasealife.org; 907-224-6334. Media contact Email: media@alaskasealife.org.

Seward, Alaska (January 3, 2017)– The Alaska SeaLife Center is pleased to kick-off 2017 with Winter FISHtival! Each Saturday during the month of January the Center will offer special family friendly activities led by animal care experts and educators. All activities are included in the cost of admission and free to members. Winter FISHtival Saturday events include: Magnify Magic, Underwater Adventure, and a Deep Diving Seabird Scatter Feeding. Step up to the microscope for a really close look at some of the smallest and most fascinating sea animals. Join our educators in the underwater viewing area to do the seal hop and learn more about sea lions and seals! See some high-speed, deep diving seabird action and find out how these birds are specially adapted for under-sea foraging. Additionally, each week we will highlight a special marine animal or group of marine animals: Saturday, January 7: Weird fish With over 80 species of fish from Alaska in our aquariums, some of them are just bound to be a little more weird, a little more cool! Our aquarists are excited to show you some of the weirdest, coolest fish in our aquariums. You will learn more about what makes these fish special and how our team takes care of these amazing animals!   Saturday, January 14: Wolf eels Observe our dive team conduct an underwater feeding of a six foot long wolf eel! Our aquarists and educators will be on hand as we watch the dive team feed the adult wolf eel that lives in a rocky den in our two-story 95,000 gallon aquarium. Next we will head upstairs to observe a feeding of two young wolf eels living in our Kelp Forest tank. Learn about these amazing animals that have fang shaped teeth and an impressive bite force for pulverizing prey - but are typically friendly to divers and can be trained to feed on command. Saturday, January 21: Jellies, nudibranchs, sea cucumbers and other squishy things Join our aquarists and educators to explore the amazing and diverse world of invertebrates. Join the team as we look for newest arrivals in our tanks, observe a feeding and learn more about how we take care of these unique animals. Saturday, January 28: Incredible octopus Meet Gilligan, a giant Pacific octopus in our Octo Grotto and learn more about one of the most intelligent members of the marine world. Our aquarists and educators will share their knowledge about these animals and then we will head up to our research theater to observe a feeding of two younger animals. The Alaska SeaLife Center is open daily during the winter 12 noon - 5 p.m. We offer discounts for Alaska residents, seniors and U.S. military. All Winter FISHtival activities are included in the cost of admission and free to members. For more information on WinterFISHtival Saturdays, visit the Alaska SeaLife Center on Facebook or www.alaskasealife.org. Special winter hotel rates are available at Hotel 360, Breeze Inn and Hotel Seward. For additional information on hotels and restaurants in Seward, contact the Seward Chamber of Commerce at 907-224-8051 or www.seward.com. About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.   High resolution art available from media@alaskasealife.org; 907-224-6334

Seward, Alaska (May 5, 2017) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is inviting visitors to see wildlife response and rehabilitation in action. A tiny sea otter pup is now receiving 24-hour care in the Center’s “I.Sea.U” area where members of the public may observe the pup being cared for by animal care specialists. Estimated to be three weeks old when it was admitted to ASLC’s Wildlife Response and Rehabilitation Program on March 18, staff say the pup is progressing well. “This little otter pup shows every indication of thriving under our care,” said Dr. Kathy Woodie, staff veterinarian at the Alaska SeaLife Center. “He is eager to groom himself, is turning himself over in the water and has learned to dive.”   Young otters are entirely dependent on their mothers for up to nine months. Admitting these young patients to the Center’s Wildlife Response and Rehabilitation Program means standing in for otter moms to provide constant care for the duration, teaching them all the life skills they need to survive. Good grooming to maintain a healthy coat is particularly critical to otter health. Initially the Center’s staff worked to rehydrate the pup, get him started on otter pup formula and administer around-the-clock supportive care. The pup has continued to hit expected developmental milestones including weight gain. Soft foods like clam have been integrated into his diet. He is experiencing typical pup teething and associated sore gums. His coat and overall body condition are currently very good. The otter pup is the second of two marine mammals to be admitted to the Center since early March. Responders say they are watching this season carefully to see if the new trend in strandings continues resulting in year-round concern for an issue that had been predominantly seasonal prior to 2015. “Over the past two years, we have experienced a significant increase in total calls to our wildlife response hotline and in cases requiring action from our team,” said Tara Riemer, ASLC President and CEO. The Alaska SeaLife Center, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, is the only permitted marine mammal wildlife response and rehabilitation entity in Alaska. Over 80% of the funding for the Center’s wildlife response program comes from charitable contributions. “We especially thank individual Alaskans all across the state, our visitors and corporate sponsors at BP Alaska, ConocoPhillips, PetZoo and GCI for their generous contributions to the Center in support of wildlife rescue,” said Riemer.   The Alaska SeaLife Center operates a 24-hour hotline for the public to report stranded marine mammals or birds, and encourages people who have found a stranded or sick marine animal to avoid touching or approaching the animal. Call first! 1-888-774-SEAL.   High resolution photos available from media@alaskasealife.org; 907-422-7075.   About the Alaska SeaLife Center: Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org or find us on Facebook.              

Seward, AK (October 3, 2017)-The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) received a stranded male beluga whale calf from Cook Inlet on Saturday, September 30. The solitary animal, estimated at two to four weeks old, was found stranded near Trading Bay in western Cook Inlet. The calf was first spotted from a helicopter by a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of Law Enforcement (NOAA OLE) Enforcement Officer and Department of Public Safety / Alaska Wildlife Troopers Pilot returning from a patrol in trooper helicopter “Helo 3.” No adult belugas were seen in the area. Under authorization from NOAA Fisheries’ Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program (MMHSRP), the NOAA enforcement officer and the Alaska Wildlife Troopers pilot attempted unsuccessfully to encourage the animal back in the water. NOAA helped coordinate with Helo 3 to transport an Alaska SeaLife Center veterinarian working in the area to the site to assess the animal's condition. A decision was made to transport the beluga calf to Anchorage for subsequent transfer to the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward.                      “The rescue and recovery of this animal would not have been possible without the support of the Alaska Wildlife Troopers aviation section pilot,” said NOAA Law Enforcement Officer Noah Meisenheimer. “He was willing to re-configure space on the aircraft to accommodate the beluga calf, and once on the ground in the Department of Public Safety hangar at Lake Hood, we were able to keep water on the calf inside the hangar until the Alaska SeaLife Center transport team arrived.” The calf is currently receiving treatment in the Alaska SeaLife Center’s I.Sea.U. “The calf appeared to have been stranded for several hours and was in a weakened condition; without evidence of major physical trauma. He is able to swim on his own and is breathing regularly, which are very positive signs. However, there are tremendous hurdles ahead. Because this animal is extremely young, there is a high risk of complications,” said Dr. Carrie Goertz, DVM, ASLC Director of Animal Health. When the 162-cm-long (64-inch) calf was brought to the Center, it weighed 64.5 kilograms (142 pounds). The calf is currently being fed every two hours with an electrolyte solution and dilute formula. Beluga whales exist in five distinct populations in Alaska. This calf is from the Cook Inlet population, which is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only permitted marine mammal rehabilitation center in Alaska, responding to stranded wildlife such as sea otters, harbor seals, and whales. The Center's Wildlife Response Program responded to this Cook Inlet beluga whale stranding under authorization from NOAA Fisheries. Once a stranded marine mammal is admitted to the ASLC, it receives care from our experienced and dedicated veterinary and animal care staff. Currently the Center is caring for six patients: two harbor seals, two sea otters, a walrus calf and the beluga calf. The Alaska SeaLife Center operates a 24-hour hotline for the public to report stranded marine animals, and encourages people who have found a stranded or sick marine animal to avoid touching or approach­ing the animal. Call first! 1-888-774-SEAL. About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.  About NOAA NOAA's mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marineresources. Join us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and our other social media channels. To learn more, visit  https://alaskafisheries.noaa.gov/ NOAA Fisheries statewide Alaska Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline number is 877-925-7773. High resolution photos and full story available from media@alaskasealife.org or 907-422-7075.

Seward, Alaska (July 16, 2018)– Alexander Havens from the Alaska SeaLife Center has been selected as a 2018 Science Communication Fellow and will sail aboard Exploration Vessel (E/V) Nautilus during its 2018 expedition. Alex will join the Corps of Exploration aboard E/V Nautilus in July and August as they explore off the west coast of Canada. Twenty-one educators and eighteen students from North America have been selected from a competitive pool of applicants by the Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) to participate at sea during the 2018 Nautilus Exploration Program expedition. OET, a nonprofit founded by Dr. Robert Ballard in 2008, has the mission to explore the ocean, seeking out new discoveries in the fields of geology, biology, maritime history, archaeology, physics, and chemistry while pushing the boundaries of STEAM education and technological innovation. The selected educators and students hail from schools, universities, science centers, and non-profit organizations in eighteen states in the US, Puerto Rico, Canada, and Mexico. They will join the Nautilus Corps of Exploration during sea-going expeditions from June through November in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, exploring from British Columbia, Canada, along the West Coast of the US, and west to the Hawaiian Islands. “I have been mesmerized and inspired by the ocean ever since I was a child, and today I work to instill that wonder in others,” said Alex. “Through the Ocean Exploration Trust, I have been given the opportunity to participate in the cutting edge of marine science communication. I am looking forward to bringing ongoing deep-sea science and exploration live to classrooms and audiences of all ages.” As members of the Corps of Exploration, educators and students will stand watch alongside scientists and engineers, as well as participate in live interactions with shore-based audiences via Nautilus Live, a 24-hour web portal bringing expeditions from the field to future explorers on shore via telepresence technology at www.nautiluslive.org and via social media. OET promotes science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) education around the world using the excitement of exploration and innovation to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. “One of the major goals of our Nautilus Exploration Program is to inspire the next generation of explorers in STEAM fields,” said Allison Fundis, OET’s Vice President of Marine Operations and Programs, “we are very excited to provide educators and students with the direct experience of ocean exploration, while allowing them the opportunity to share that experience with their peers around the world.” The 2018 Science Communication Fellowship, an initiative of OET, will bring twenty-one formal and informal educators and communicators together from North America as a part of the Nautilus Corps of Exploration. Fellows are charged with the responsibility of engaging students and the public in the wonders of ocean exploration, sharing discoveries from the 2018 mission, as well as aspects of daily life aboard a working exploration vessel. Fellows receive four days of intensive training at the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography, and then spend two to three weeks aboard E/V Nautilus between the months of June and November, as it explores the Eastern Pacific Ocean. An equally important aspect of the program is for Fellows to bring the expedition and excitement of ocean exploration back to their home communities after they have returned from sea by incorporating their experience into classroom lesson plans, community presentation events, and through informal educational opportunities.   Alaska SeaLife Center Senior Education Manager Jeff Dillon is excited about this opportunity for Alex. “We are very proud of Alex on achieving the honor to serve with the 2018 Nautilus Live crew,” said Dillon. “His dedication to educating a variety of audiences about the wonders in, importance of, and challenges facing the ocean is contagious. He is always looking for new and novel ways to engage the public and we know he will be a perfect fit for his cruise this summer. The Alaska SeaLife Center staff, members, and guests will all benefit greatly from Alex’s participation – congratulations Alex!”  Alex will participate in live audio commentary and question-and-answer sessions through the Nautilus Live website while aboard the ship; he will also engage events and activities upon his return. The public, scientists, educators, and students can join Alex’s adventure while he is at sea via streaming video on www.nautiluslive.org, a 24-hour portal bringing expeditions from the field to onshore audiences through telepresence technology. The public can also follow the expedition on social media – on Twitter as @EVNautilus and on Facebook and Instagram as @NautilusLive – and through in-person live interactions at partner museums, aquaria, and science centers around the world. About the ASLC: Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) research institution and public aquarium. We are excited to be celebrating 20 years of generating and sharing scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org or find us on Facebook.     About the Ocean Exploration Trust: The Ocean Exploration Trust was founded in 2008 by Dr. Robert Ballard to explore the ocean, seeking out new discoveries in the fields of geology, biology, maritime history, and archaeology while pushing the boundaries of STEAM education and technological innovation. Our international program is launched from aboard the Exploration Vessel (E/V) Nautilus, offering live exploration to participants on shore and the public via live video, audio, and data feeds. The major 2018 expedition and education sponsors are the NOAA Office of Exploration & Research, the Office of Naval Research, Ocean Networks Canada, NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, NASA Science Mission Directorate PSTAR program, the University of Rhode Island, CITGO, AltaSea, KVH, Global Dynamix, ESS, and additional private donors. Follow us online atwww.nautiluslive.org, on Facebook and Instagram at @NautilusLive, and on Twitter and YouTube as @EVNautilus.  Questions and requests for high resolution photos may be directed to General E/V Nautilus photos. Credit: OET/Nautilus Live. For specific expedition photos, email press@oet.org

Seward, Alaska (July 2, 2019) – In April, the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) began a busy wildlife response season with the admittance of a sea otter pup, Tazlina, and a bearded seal, Saktuliq. In May and June, four harbor seals and one spotted seal were integrated into the Wildlife Response Program. The seals arrived from various areas of Alaska; Homer, Ninilchik, Cordova, and Stebbins. If the harbor seals recover, they will hopefully all be released back to the wild at the end of summer. Receiving a large influx of patients can be a challenge for a small non-profit facility. Currently, only three full-time staff members work in the Wildlife Response department. Part-time staff, interns, and partners from other aquariums are critical for animal care. The seals alone receive daily treatments, four feedings, warm water swims, and cleanings which require extensive preparation by staff. In addition to new seal patients, Tazlina, the sea otter pup, is still receiving 24/7 care in ASLC’s I.Sea.U near the touch tank. ASLC partners from Vancouver Aquarium are graciously donating staff members to help care for her. While the Center has responded to numerous animals this season there are some that have unfortunately not survived. There were seven calls about harbor seals and three passed due to various health conditions or injuries. “Every year some animals don’t make it. Sometimes the reason animals strand is due to an advanced illness or birth defect that we won’t discover until we begin treatment,” states Wildlife Response Curator, Jane Belovarac. While it is disheartening to lose a patient, the Center is still proud of their high success rate in rehabilitating sick and injured marine life. The Center follows strict procedures when intervening with a wild animal. A marine mammal must be in critical condition to justify an immediate pick up. “Once you decide to take an animal off of the beach, its life is changed forever. If an animal, pup or adult, does not meet the criteria for an obvious pick up we will often give it a tide cycle or an overnight to see if it recovers on its own,” notes Belovarac. Two animals this season actually returned to the ocean after leaving them for observation, which is what the team likes to see. If a sick or injured animal is encountered, ASLC staff urge people to call first, observe at a safe distance, respect the animal’s territory, and keep pets and children away. ASLC operates a 24-hour stranding hotline where trained professionals will walk people through the proper steps to assist the animal.Call 1-888-774-SEAL if you see a marine mammal in distress. Over 80% of the funding for the Alaska SeaLife Center’sWildlife Response Program comes from charitable donations. The Center is thankful for organizations like Marathon Petroleum, BP Alaska, ConocoPhillips Alaska, SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, GCI, HDR Marine, and PetZoo whose generous support helps ASLC care for marine mammals.   About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and a public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.

 Seward, Alaska (May 14, 2020) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) will reopen to the public on Wednesday, May 20, following Phase 2 of the state’s “Reopen Alaska Responsibly Plan.” The Center will operate well below 25% capacity and is implementing new standard operating procedures and enhanced health and safety measures to safeguard guests, staff, and animals. “After two months of being closed to the public, we are excited to reopen our doors to share our educational mission as well as support Alaskans who have been hunkered down for so long,” said Tara Riemer, ASLC President and CEO. “The health, safety, and wellbeing of every guest is our utmost priority. While we are taking a cautious approach to reopening, we aim to still deliver a world-class experience for visitors.” Along with attendance limits that support physical distancing, other health and safety initiatives include online ticket sales only, one-way visitor flow, and enhanced cleaning methods. Staff and guests over the age of 2 are required to wear face coverings. The interactive fish boat exhibit will remain temporarily closed, and the touch tank will be open to view but not to touch. A complete list of all health and safety measures can be found at www.alaskasealife.org/reopening. “We have been preparing for our reopening for several weeks to ensure we are maintaining the highest standards of health and safety. From conducting a deep clean of all exhibits to removing unnecessary touchpoints, the Alaska SeaLife Center is well prepared to provide a safe, clean and enjoyable experience for our guests,” said Chip Arnold, ASLC Chief Operating Officer. The Center is now taking online reservations for May 20 to 31 and will soon add the opportunity to reserve tickets for June. Online tickets are now required for all guests, including members. Members have already received customized information via email on how to reserve their tickets. Anyone arriving without an online reservation can use a QR code to access online ticket purchases if capacity is available. Admission will be timed, which will limit the number of guests in the Center at one time and provide for increased physical distancing. “Next week I hope to welcome to the Alaska SeaLife Center many Alaskans who have the opportunity to explore one of Alaska’s jewels in their own backyard,” states Riemer. “We have taken care to provide a safe environment where visitors to can both have fun and learn something about Alaska’s ocean ecosystems and our amazing marine animals.” Online tickets must be reserved prior to visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center, and information can be found on the Center’s website, www.alaskasealife.org.

Seward, Alaska (June 4, 2020) –The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) will be open to the public five days a week during June.  The June schedule will be as follows: ●       Mondays - 10:00am-5:00pm ●       Tuesdays - closed ●       Wednesdays - closed ●       Thursdays - 10:00am-5:00pm ●       Fridays - 10:00am-6:00pm ●       Saturdays - 9:00am-6:00pm ●       Sundays - 9:00am-5:00pm The last visitor entry is one hour before closing. Due to hourly capacity limits, online reservations are strongly encouraged to ensure ticket availability. Tickets can be purchased at the door; however, if capacity is not immediately available, visitors may have to wait for a later entry time. Members have received information by email on how to reserve member tickets. The Center will continue to implement enhanced health and safety measures to safeguard guests, staff, and animals. Precautions are being refined to enhance the guest experience while maintaining safety. The touch tank, a visitor favorite, is now open with modifications to enable visitors to maintain social distancing. The fishing boat play structure and tours will remain closed, although limited tours are expected to return at the end of June. After a successful reopening to the public on May 20, the Center will continue to modify operations as COVID-19 evolves. “After just two weeks of being open, we have seen so much support from our fellow Alaskans,” said Tara Riemer, ASLC President and CEO. “The health, safety, and wellbeing of every guest, staff member, and animal is still our utmost priority, but we are thrilled to continue our mission by delivering a world-class experience for visitors.” Tickets and information about current operating procedures can be found on the ASLC website: www.alaskasealife.org/reopening

Seward, Alaska (July 16, 2019)– The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is hosting the 21st Annual 5K Wildlife Rescue Run & Walk on Saturday, August 3. This family-friendly race is a fundraiser to support the Center’s Wildlife Response Program. This has been another very busy year for the program. They have received 213 distressed animal calls resulting in the admission of 12 patients: 1 sea otter, 1 bearded seal, 1 spotted seal, and 9 harbor seals. The team has also responded to some unusual calls this summer, including two sub-adult elephant seals. Tara Riemer, ASLC President and CEO, said “Wildlife response is a key component of our mission work. While rewarding, it is also very intense, requiring 24-hour care from teams of dedicated staff. The Wildlife Rescue Run is an opportunity for the public to become part of the team by running and supporting our mission work.” The 5K race route follows a generally flat course along the scenic Seward waterfront and is open to walkers and runners of all levels. The course offers beautiful views of Seward's Resurrection Bay and its neighboring mountainous peaks, and there is a good chance of seeing marine life along the way. This year all participants, including virtual runners, will receive a limited edition t-shirt designed by the Salmon Sisters. Race participants are invited to register online via the link found at www.alaskasealife.org. Registration is $35 a person through August 2, and $40 the day of the race. Supporters who can’t be in Seward on race day can sign up online to be a virtual runner. Race bibs will be available for pickup in the Alaska SeaLife Center lobby on August 3 from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. All participants will begin the race at 12:00 p.m. The presentation of race awards and drawings for the door prizes will be held at 2:00 p.m. This year, supply donations for the Wildlife Response Program will be accepted at the Wildlife Rescue Run & Walk. Items used to support the rescue and rehabilitation of marine wildlife have been requested, and a container will be available at the race to collect donated items. The list of items being accepted can be found at http://www.alaskasealife.org/how_you_can_help Wildlife Response Program sponsors include Marathon Petroleum, BP, ConocoPhillips, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, Pet Zoo Alaska and GCI. Race sponsors include Alaska Serigraphics, Bright Road Wealth Management, State Farm Agent Kelsey DeLuca, Seward Family Dentistry – Dr. Michael Moriarty DDS, GraphicWorks, Petro 49, Seasalt Alaskan Grill & Bar, Seward Parks and Recreation Department, TelAlaska, Klondike Pizzeria, Kruzof, Safeway, Salmon Sisters, Seward Alehouse, Seward Properties, Strabel Racing Services, The Cookery & Oyster Bar, and Woody's Thai Kitchen. About the ASLC: Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and a public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org. The Alaska SeaLife Center operates a 24-hour hotline for the public to report stranded marine mammals or birds, and encourages people who have found a stranded or sick marine animal to avoid touching or approaching the animal. Call first: 1-888-774-SEAL

Seward, Alaska (May 11, 2020) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a female harbor seal pup into their Wildlife Response Program on May 4.   On May 3, the pup was found near a ferry terminal in Haines, Alaska by Haines Animal Rescue Kennel. The organization responded appropriately by contacting ASLC and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) first before moving the pup. After NOAA approval was received, the seal was transported safely to ASLC the following day. This pup was the second harbor seal the team attempted to rescue from Haines over the course of just two days. The first pup passed before arriving at the Center.   When the surviving pup entered ASLC’s Wildlife Response Program , the staff were immediately surprised to see she was very small, only 12 lbs, and had full lanugo. Lanugo is the soft fur on newborn pups. While ice seals are typically born with lanugo, it is rare harbor seals are born with it. “This may be the smallest harbor seal I have seen. Because of her size, lanugo, and various exam and diagnostic results, we believe she is only a few days old and premature,” declared Director of Animal Health, Dr. Carrie Goertz, D.V.M.   The immaturity of this seal’s immune system due to her premature birth signals to staff that she has a long road to recovery. According to veterinary staff, while she had no physical trauma upon admission, she had obvious respiratory and cardiovascular issues. With her health issues, just seeing her make it through the first night was uplifting for the team. “Her situation is critical though she does seem to be getting stronger,” states Wildlife Response Curator, Jane Belovarac.   Caring for wildlife response patients while under unusual regulations due to COVID-19 is more complicated for the staff. “It requires us to be more thoughtful and efficient when more than one person is needed to accomplish procedures. We all wear masks, plan a lot in advance, and move apart as soon as possible,” explains Dr. Goertz. Since COVID-19 is affecting operations, the Center is assessing stranding events on a case-by-case basis to ensure staff safety. As always, ASLC encourages people to call first if they find a marine animal in distress.   The Alaska SeaLife Center is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and the only permitted marine mammal rehabilitation center in Alaska. Over 80% of the funding for ASLC’s Wildlife Response Program comes from charitable donations. The Center is thankful for individual donors and organizations like Marathon Petroleum Corporation, SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, BP Alaska, ConocoPhillips Alaska, PetZoo, GCI, HDR Marine, and Graphic Works whose generous support helps ASLC care for marine mammals like harbor seals.   About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), non-profit research institution and public aquarium in Seward, Alaska. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.  

Seward, Alaska (October 1, 2020)The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is pleased to be one of just fifteen recipients worldwide of the first annual Pinnacle Hall of Fame Award from the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC). CILC is the leading clearing house for interactive, virtual education programs for students and lifelong learners. ASLC’s education team has been recognized with CILC’s annual Pinnacle Award for outstanding virtual program content and delivery ten times since the Pinnacle Award was established in 2008. The Alaska SeaLife Center’s distance learning program has reached over 107,000 students and teachers across Alaska, the United States, and internationally since its inception in 2005. During the evaluation period for the most recent Pinnacle Award, ASLC’s virtual programs engaged approximately 7,000 participants ranging in age from pre-kindergarten to adult learners in 24 states, 6 Canadian provinces, South Korea and Australia. “We are proud to earn the Pinnacle Award because it is based on evaluations by the educators and end users who participate in the program,” said Tara Riemer, ASLC President and CEO. “We are honored to be acknowledged for years of delivering quality educational programs with the new Pinnacle Hall of Fame Award.” “While many Americans are just discovering virtual programming, our innovative and dynamic education team has delivered these types of programs for fifteen years,” said Jeff Dillon, Senior Education Manager. “Now more than ever audiences around the world see the benefit of learning remotely and are familiar with accessing online programs. We look forward to offering new ways for people of all ages to connect with the Alaska SeaLife Center.” Previous distance learning programs have been offered only for prearranged groups such as school classrooms. For the first time, ASLC is offering a virtual program for individual registration. The first Virtual Visit will be a free 30-minute program entitled “Seabird Superpowers” and will be offered three times in the coming week: Tuesday, October 6 at 3:30pm Wednesday, October 7 at 5:30pm Thursday, October 8 at 11:00am Program participants will visit the ASLC seabird aviary with an educator and an aviculturist to get an up-close look at the amazing abilities that allow our diving seabirds to explore the ocean depths, stay warm, catch fish, and dig burrows. While this program is free, registration is required and can be completed online at https://www.alaskasealife.org/virtualvisits.

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is preparing for a busy summer season as the new Rocky Coast Discovery Pools open. This past Saturday, May 29, the Center saw 1,713 visitors pass through the facility, a record number for May for at least the past fifteen years. Visitors are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets ahead of time to guarantee their date and time of entry. Saturdays in particular are booking up fast; last weekend the entrance wait time for walk-ins reached 2 hours. Ticket reservations: www.alaskasealife.org/tickets  While the increased tourism is welcomed, the team is still working to keep people safe by requiring masks and managing capacity. “We are grateful for the attendance level we are experiencing after a difficult 2020. While we can handle an increase in visitation, we must prioritize safety for both people and animals by continuing mask use and encouraging social distancing,” explains Tara Riemer, ASLC President and CEO. She continued, “Many of our younger guests under age 16 have not had the chance to become fully vaccinated, and their safety is of utmost importance.”  The recent opening of the Rocky Coast Discovery Pools is also expected to attract even more visitors. Phase one of the new 1,100 gallon exhibit build offers guests a hands-on opportunity to explore Alaskan fish and invertebrate species in 6 pools. ASLC is thankful to the contributors of this new exhibit: ConocoPhillips Alaska, First National Bank Alaska, Matson, Petro Marine Services, Shoreside Petroleum, and the Lindsey Family.   About ASLC: Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org or find us on Facebook.   

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has admitted a male harbor seal pup into the Wildlife Response Program. The harbor seal pup was found far from the water’s edge near a beach in Port Moller on the Alaska Peninsula. The animal was monitored for several days by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game until it became evident that intervention was necessary when no seals returned to the pup. The animal was transported to the Center after receiving National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration approval on June 15. Lake Clark Air graciously donated the flight for the seal to Anchorage.  Upon the initial admit exam, the main concerns of the veterinary team include severely low body weight,  dehydration, and gastrointestinal issues. The team is currently providing initial stabilizing treatments and examining the patient further to understand the severity of the animal’s condition. A full press release will be provided with updates on this animal after further monitoring and examination.   The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can provide care for animals like this harbor seal because of donations from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of this patient here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from companies like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, PetZoo, Borman Family Foundation, GCI, Partners4Wildlife, Sea Otter Foundation & Trust, and Grizzly Pet Products.  About ASLC  Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), non-profit research institution and public aquarium in Seward, Alaska. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.   

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted two more harbor seal pups into their Wildlife Response Program within just a day of each other, raising the total number of patients to six.    On June 22, a female pup from Port Moller on the Alaska Peninsula was transported to the Center. The seal (pictured in this release) was found near the town by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The pup was monitored for a few days, but since it was so close to town, more people began investigating it. After receiving National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) approval the pup was picked up. Lake Clark Air graciously donated a flight for the seal after already donating a flight for a pup the previous week. Upon the initial admit exam, the main concerns of the veterinary team include low body weight, dehydration, and a puncture wound on her flipper, likely from some type of predator. The team is currently providing initial stabilizing treatments and examining the patient further to understand the severity of the animal’s condition.    On June 23, another harbor seal pup was spotted by NOAA officials intermittently showing up on a beach in Juneau. It appeared to be very underweight with no other seals in the area. The animal just arrived to the Center and the veterinary team is still doing preliminary examinations. Updates will be provided after further treatment.   The harbor seal pups that have already been admitted in the Center’s Wildlife Response Program are all in various stages of recovery. The male pup found in Seward on May 27 presented with neurological issues and vision impairment likely from a difficult birth. The team is impressed with how far he has progressed, but he continues to display neurological challenges that will likely never resolve. For this reason, the team believes he may not be releasable since these challenges will put him at a significant disadvantage in the wild.    The male pup found in Port Moller on June 15 is still in critical care. He arrived severely underweight and consequently is still very weak from malnourishment. While he is not strong enough to swim on his own, the team is cautiously optimistic that he will gain the weight and strength he needs. The two other seals, one from the Little Susitna River and one from Anchor Point, are progressing more quickly. They are now in outdoor holding areas with their own pools and graduating from re-hydrating liquids to fish formula and even some whole fish.    The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can provide care for animals like these seals because of donations from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of these seal patients here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of companies like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, PetZoo, Borman Family Foundation, GCI, Partners4Wildlife, Sea Otter Foundation & Trust, and Grizzly Pet Products.  About ASLC  Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), non-profit research institution and public aquarium in Seward, Alaska. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.   

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a two-day-old sea otter pup to the Wildlife Response Program on August 8.   The female pup was found stranded on a remote beach in Seldovia by a family camping nearby. “When we enco untered this tiny creature who looked so helpless, we felt that we had to do something. We remembered hearing that the Alaska SeaLife Center helps to rescue animals in need, so we reached out. Luckily we had cell service where we were camping,” explains the pup’s rescuers, Neil Waggoner and Marisa Jaso. An adult sea otter was spotted in the area, but this animal did not approach the pup. After observing the pup for a day, the family sprung into action.   After receiving U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service permission, the team at ASLC reached out to stranding partner, Michael Opheium of the Seldovia Village Tribe, for assistance. He cared for the otter overnight until she could be transported via water taxi to Homer the following day. The Homer Veterinary Clinic was called upon to administer fluids before her long car ride to Seward.    This sea otter pup, weighing just under three pounds, arrived weak but fairly stable. The team was concerned about her initially because generally sea otter pups are very vocal, but this pup arrived more lethargic and silent. “Otter pups are very hands-on animals to begin with so seeing this young pup come out of the kennel, barely reacting to staff, was concerning. After her exam it was crucial to get some calories on board and thankfully she latched onto the bottle right away. She has been eating well since then, so I am cautiously optimistic,” states Hanna Sundstrom, Veterinary Assistant Specialist. After a few days of care, the pup has brightened, but the veterinary team is continuing to monitor her closely.    While eight harbor seal pups are currently being cared for at the Center, this is the first sea otter pup admitted to the Wildlife Response Program in 2021. Sea otter pups require round-the-clock care so staffing will change drastically in the rehabilitation department in order to feed and groom her every two hours. The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can provide care for animals like this sea otter pup because of donations from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of this patient here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from  companies like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, PetZoo, Borman Family Foundation, GCI, and Sea Otter Foundation & Trust.    About ASLC  Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), non-profit research institution and public aquarium in Seward, Alaska. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.