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.    

Seward, Alaska (June 2, 2016) – Healthy oceans are vital for marine wildlife, and Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) will join people around the world on Wednesday, June 8—World Oceans Day—to bring renewed focus to that message and the day’s theme: Healthy oceans, healthy planet. To celebrate this event, ASLC will open its new underwater viewing exhibit, Nose 2 Nose: imagination and science will take you everywhere, provide fun activities for the whole family, and offer membership specials on June 8 and every Saturday in June. World Oceans Day activities for all ages will be available on June 8 from 9:00am to 5:00pm and include an opportunity to shake wings with Tuffy the Puffin (11:00am, 1:00pm, & 3:00pm), embark on the Ocean Quest game to actively explore exhibits, culminating in a tasty reward, and post a World Oceans Day pledge selfie to the ASLC Facebook page. Alaska author Barbara Brovelli-Moon will also join ASLC to celebrate the day and will be in the gift shop from 10:00am to 2:00pm to sign her fun, educational activity books, “Marine Mammals of Alaska for Children” and “Land Mammals of Alaska: A Field Guide for Children.” Additionally, a number of fun, multi-sensory activities will be available throughout the new Nose 2 Nose marine life exhibit on a daily basis, during regular ASLC hours. Nose 2 Nose enhances the underwater viewing area with a new Octopus Grotto where visitors can walk (or crawl) inside, see amazing fish models handcrafted by Alaska taxidermist Tom Kaiser, and learn more about resident octopuses and other marine dwellers. The exhibit also offers an array of interpretive installations and fun activities for the entire family. In addition to seeing eye-to-eye with octopuses, sea lions, seals, and a number of fish and bird species, Nose 2 Nose visitors will be invited to: •    Accept the Sea Ice Challenge, and hop from floe to floe •    Create an underwater symphony •    Make like a seal and try the Seal Hop, a Native Youth Olympics sport •    Become a marine real estate agent Crawl through the octopus cave, meet a pinniped friend, and discover sea stars, sea lions, fish, diving birds, and more in Alaska SeaLife Center’s new Nose 2 Nose exhibit. .. Visitors will also not want to miss the wild sea lion cam. Pupping season has begun on Chiswell Island and visitors will want to check the Nose 2 Nose gallery monitor for any new pups that may be ready for their close up! The new exhibit Coastal Impressions: A Photographic Journey Along Alaska’s Gulf Coast will be open for visitors to explore, as well. On loan from the Nature Conservancy, this beautiful photography display is part of the Cook Inlet Regional Citizens Advisory Council’s (CIRCAC) ShoreZone mapping project, and features select stunning large format images taken during the inventory of Alaska’s coastal biological and geological habitats. Sponsored by CIRCAC and developed in partnership with Auke Bay Laboratories of the National Marine Fisheries Service’s Alaska Fisheries Science Center and the Alaska ShoreZone Program, this exhibit not only provides vital biological and geographical information on Alaska, but also allows visitors a window to areas of the state that few are fortunate enough to see. In addition to exploring exhibits and activities, visitors will want to be sure to set their watches for the marine animal feedings scheduled on June 8! •    Sea lion feeding (second floor, sea lion habitat)         9:00am & 2:30pm •    Seal feeding (second floor, seal habitat)                     9:45am & 4:30pm •    Bird broadcast feeding (second/first floors, aviary)    11:45am, 3:00pm, & 4:00pm There is still more on the docket! Fascinating and informative presentations by ASLC staff will continue to be available daily in the galleries throughout June and July, including: •    Bird keeper presentation (second floor, aviary)                                               10:00am •    Pinniped presentation (first floor, Arctic Theater)                                            12:00pm •    ASLC Wildlife Response Program presentation (first floor, Arctic Theater)    3:30pm Additionally, Sea Otter Encounter, Puffin Encounter, Marine Mammal Encounter, and Octopus Encounter tours, as well as Behind the Scenes tours, continue to be available daily throughout the summer. Reservations are recommended for all encounters and tours (1-888-378-2525) and age restrictions apply. Alaska SeaLife Center hours through September 4, 2016, are: Friday – Saturday – Sunday                                8:00am – 9:00pm Monday – Tuesday – Wednesday – Thursday     9:00am – 9:00pm 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 more information available from media@alaskasealife.org, 907-224-6334.  

Seward, Alaska (September, 28 2017) – A male sea otter pup rescued from Kasilof Beach was admitted to the Alaska SeaLife Center on Thursday, September 7th. The lone pup was observed on the shore covered in sand. With the support of local residents, ASLC’s Wildlife Response Team responded. Upon approval from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the pup was transported to the Center where he was examined by ASLC veterinarians. “Thankfully this weakened pup appeared to be suffering from dehydration and malnutrition and not from a severe physical trauma,” said Dr. Kathy Woodie, staff veterinarian. Estimated at two months of age, the pup is progressing well under ASLC’s 24 hour care. According to Lisa Hartman, Husbandry Manager, “He’s improving, but his condition is guarded. We are cautiously optimistic with his improvement. The first weeks after admittance to the Center are always the most critical.” Taking care of a sea otter pup this young is labor intensive as in the wild they normally remain dependent on their mothers for care and knowledge until six to nine months. ASLC’s Wildlife Response Team steps into the role of mother to teach grooming skills and feed him every three hours. Savannah Costner, an Animal Care Specialist explains, “Grooming is an essential skill for sea otter survival. Here at ASLC, the grooming process from wet to dry takes about one and a half to two hours. We separate the thick fur with combs to find wet spots and use towels and hair dryers, set on cool, to dry him out.” While the pup is currently out of public view, he is expected to soon be moved to the I.Sea.U where he will be visible to visitors of the Center. ASLC President and CEO Tara Riemer explains, “We have no federal or state funding to care for sea otters, and we rely on donations to keep this program going. During Sea Otter Awareness Week, we especially thank individual Alaskans all around the state as well as our corporate partners - BP, ConocoPhillips, SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, and PetZoo Alaska - for their generous con­tributions to the Center in support of wildlife rescue.” The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only permitted marine mammal rehabilitation center in Alaska, responding to wildlife such as seals, walrus, and sea otters year round. The Center’s Wildlife Response Program responds to sea otters with the au­thorization of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 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.

Seward, Alaska (August 5, 2016)– The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is proud to announce the release of a male Pacific harbor seal pup on Saturday, August 6. The timing of the pup’s release coincides with the Center’s 18th Annual Wildlife Rescue Run & Walk, a fundraiser benefitting its Wildlife Response Program. The public and media are invited to attend. What:Harbor seal pup release When:Saturday, August 6, 2016 at 2:45pm Where:Public beach area southwest of the Alaska SeaLife Center along Lowell Point Road, by the waterfall, in Seward, Alaska. The pup was admitted to ASLC on May 17. Citizens reported seeing him on a beach in Seward near a high-traffic area, which may have deterred the mother from returning. After observing the pup alone for more than two hours and seeing no sign of the mother in the vicinity, Wildlife Response Program staff brought him to the Center. The pup, estimated to be one day old, showed signs of mild dehydration. Staff immediately began providing him the appropriate support and monitoring his progress around the clock. In the following 11 weeks, Ipuk (meaning snail in the Sugpiaq language) was rehydrated and transitioned from a high fat, milk-based formula to eating and catching live fish. In hisfinal veterinary exam yesterday he met weight criteria and staff determined he was ready for release. “Ipuk’s successful rehabilitation could not be more in tune with the events of this weekend,” said Dr. Kathy Woodie, staff veterinarian. “His release is the culmination of a lot of hard work by our staff and a wonderful opportunity for Wildlife Rescue runners, walkers, and sponsors to witness first-hand the program they are supporting.” The ASLC is the only permanent marine mammal rehabilitation center in Alaska, responding to wildlife such as seals, sea otters, and also seabirds. The Program is authorized to respond to stranded harbor seals under an agreement with NOAA. “Our Wildlife Response Program relies on donations to operate, respond to, and care for marine mammals and seabirds that are found injured or stranded throughout the state,” said President and CEO Dr. Tara Riemer. “We thank our 2016 program sponsors, Shell Exploration and Production and ConocoPhillips, Alaska, for their generous program support of wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and oil spill response readiness.” ASLC’s 2017 Wildlife Response Program funding is currently unsecured and will rely on additional corporate sponsors and individual donations. One lucky Wildlife Rescue participant will be selected to assist in Ipuk’s release. The race awards and door prize event will begin at 2:00pm in the Center’s atrium, following the race, which begins at 12:00pm. More information on the race can be found at this link: https://alaskasealife.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/2016RescueRun/tabid/783524/Default.aspx 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.   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, 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, AK (March 9, 2018)– The Alaska SeaLife Center has concluded 159 days of round-the-clock care for the Cook Inlet beluga calf, Tyonek. On Thursday, Tyonek was successfully transported to SeaWorld San Antonio in Texas.  On September, 2017, the one-month-old calf was found stranded near Trading Bay in western Cook Inlet. With the authorization and assistance of NOAA, Tyonek was transported to the ASLC and housed in the Center’s I.Sea.U. When he first arrived he was in a weakened condition and required 24/7 care from multiple animal care experts. During Tyonek’s first days at the Center, he was 140 pounds and 162 cm long. He gradually progressed from suckling from a tube to drinking from a bottle. As Dr. Carrie Goertz, Director of Animal Health, described, “When it comes to helping a terribly rare Cook Inlet beluga, every day is a victory.” In November, Tyonek was transitioned to a larger outdoor pool as he became more independent. Over the next few months Tyonek steadily gained weight and grew stronger, becoming more playful with his caregivers. At his final weigh-in he was 260 pounds and 177 cm long. Once NOAA Fisheries determined Tyonek was non-releasable and could not survive in the wild, the agency followed its formal procedure to place him at a permanent care facility in the United States. Based on a thorough review of the applications, NOAA Fisheries selected SeaWorld San Antonio as the location best suited for Tyonek to thrive because they have both adult females and young male calves that will be important for Tyonek’s social development. Tyonek is the first Cook Inlet beluga calf to be successfully rehabilitated. “We are ecstatic that Tyonek continues to grow and gain strength when just over five months ago he was found stranded, malnourished, and dehydrated on a beach,” said Alaska SeaLife Center President and CEO, Dr. Tara Riemer. “The ASLC is thankful for the support of Georgia Aquarium, Mystic Aquarium, Shedd Aquarium and SeaWorld, who assisted the ASLC team since October. It has been a long journey for Tyonek, and we were happy to be a part of this young calf’s story.” Here are some statistics from Tyonek’s time at the Center: Over the course of 159 days, employees and volunteers of ASLC and partner aquariums worked over 7000 hours to care for Tyonek. While at the Center, this young calf nearly doubled his weight from 140 to 260 pounds. Tyonek drank 195 gallons of formula, an average of 1.2 gallons per day.   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 donations. The wildlife response team responds to calls across the 33,904 miles of coastline throughout Alaska. The Center is prepared for wildlife response year-round. Last year was especially eventful with response to several sea otters, various species of seal, and a walrus as well as this Cook Inlet beluga calf. We are thankful for our donors, members, and supporters who help make what we do possible. 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. High resolution photos available from media@alaskasealife.org. 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. 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.

Seward, AK (March 19, 2018)– The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has admitted its first stranded seal of 2018, a male ringed seal from Dutch Harbor. Following a record-breaking wildlife response year in 2017, ASLC’s team is more than prepared to rehabilitate the second patient of 2018. Bystanders first spotted the animal lying on a rusty pipe on Dutch Harbor’s rocky shore. Unalaska resident and Alaska Sea Grant Agent, Melissa Good was called to the scene to further observe the the animal. “When I approach an animal and it does not respond, that is the first indication something is very wrong,” Good states. The underweight seal’s balding coat and lethargic demeanor raised additional red flags for the Sea Grant Agent. With authorization from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and ASLC, the seal was recovered from the shore and transported to Anchorage courtesy of PenAir where it was met by ASLC’s wildlife responders. Once transported to the Alaska SeaLife Center on March 11, the seal was treated first for severe dehydration and malnourishment. Upon further examination, ASLC staff veterinarians found the animal to have lung worm, parasites, liver issues, a high white cell count, and an irregular molt. While this animal arrived in very poor condition, the staff remains cautiously optimistic as they begin 24-hour care. ASLC veterinarian, Dr. Kathy Woodie states, “Although this seal has a laundry list of health issues, his feisty demeanor shows promise.”  This animal is non-releasable due to the NMFS policy established for the four species of Alaskan ice seals. Ribbon, bearded, spotted, and ringed seals are considered non-releasable in the state due to consideration of subsistence hunters. With the Alaska SeaLife Center responding to stranded marine mammals along 33,904 miles of coastline, Stranding Agreement partnerships, like Alaska Sea Grant are critical. Also necessary are charitable donations that are responsible for over 80% of the funding for ASLC’s Wildlife Response program. ASLC President and CEO Tara Riemer explains, “During this time of year we are thankful to all the Alaskans that donate through Pick.Click.Give. Their contributions support the care of animals like this seal from Dutch Harbor.” 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. About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit 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’smarine 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 or 907-224-6334.

Seward, Alaska (June 13, 2018) –A female harbor seal pup and female sea otter pup, both just days old, were recently admitted to the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC). These two responses illustrate the importance of public awareness of proper stranding protocols. The harbor seal pup was found stranded on May 10, north of Homer. In the area she was found, it is speculated she was separated from her mother when the tides changed drastically. Wildlife Troopers transported the seal to ASLC wildlife responders. After thorough examination and rehydration, she was deemed a prime candidate for release. Staff is hopeful that if the pup continues to stabilize she will be prepped for release in the area where she was found. The sea otter pup was spotted by boaters floating alone in the middle of Prince William Sound. The good Samaritans became concerned when they heard the pup screaming and saw no signs of other otters in the area. They noticed the pup go face down in the water, which sparked them to pick the animal up. On June 1, she was transported to the Center. ASLC veterinarian, Dr. Kathy Woodie noted, “We’re so pleased she readily took to bottle feeding. Often sea otter pups take days before they will latch on a bottle and must be tube fed to receive critical nutrients.” While this little pup is strong, veterinarians are monitoring her for pneumonia from inhaling sea water; so far she shows no signs. Since the Alaska SeaLife Center responds to 33,904 miles of coastline, we rely on stranding partners and civilians to assist in accessing sick or injured marine mammals so medical care can be provided. However, when an animal is perceived to be in distress, the first reaction from an untrained observer is often to approach the animal. An immediate response can be a mistake as it is sometimes difficult to distinguish distress from normal behavior. Animal Care Specialist, Halley Werner notes, “Some animals leave their young in what they perceive to be a safe place while foraging for food and will return shortly. If you are concerned about an animal, before you intervene, call first 1-888-774-SEAL.” Marine animals have been safeguarded by the Marine Mammal Protection Act since 1972, so any disturbance to them is illegal without permission from the correct government authorities. 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. The Alaska SeaLife Center's Wildlife Response Program is funded by donations of both individuals and corporate donors such as BP, ConocoPhillips, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, PetZoo, and GCI. 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. 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.

Seward, Alaska (July 12, 2018) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is hosting the 20th Annual 5K Wildlife Rescue Run & Walk on Saturday, July 28. The family-friendly race is a fundraiser to support the Center’s Wildlife Response Program. This has been another busy year for the program, which has received 157 distressed animal calls resulting in the admission of 8 patients: 3 sea otters, 3 ringed seals, 1 spotted seal, and 1 harbor seal. Tara Riemer, ASLC President and CEO, said “Wildlife response has been a key component of our mission work since our founding twenty years ago. While rewarding, it is also very intense, requiring 24-hour care from teams of dedicated staff. Over 80 percent of funding for the program comes from charitable donations. The Wildlife Rescue Run combines family fun with an opportunity for the public to become part of the team by running and supporting our work.” This year the run also has special significance because it takes place on Ted Stevens Day. The late Senator Stevens was a huge supporter and champion of the Alaska SeaLife Center, visiting the Center whenever he was in Seward. Representatives from the Ted Stevens Foundation will be present at the Wildlife Rescue Run encouraging all Alaskans to “Get Out and Play.” 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's a good chance of seeing marine life along the way. Race participants are invited to register online via the link found at www.alaskasealife.org. Supporters who can’t be in Seward on race day can sign up to be a virtual runner. Race bibs will be available for pickup in the Alaska SeaLife Center atrium on July 28 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. Race participants are eligible for an array of door prizes, for which they must be present at the drawing to win. Door prizes include:  2018 Lost Lake Run entry – Two ASLC Wildlife Rescue racers will win entry for the upcoming Lost Lake Run to be held Aug. 26. For more information about the race see www.lostlakerun.com (2 prizes drawn, $100 value each)  Alaska SeaLife Center Family Membership (2 prizes drawn, $140 value each) ï‚· Two-person ASLC admission and animal encounter (1 prize drawn, $199.80 value)  Four-person ASLC admission and animal experience (1 prize drawn, $199.60 value)  Two $50 Skinny Raven Sports gift cards  Two Alaska SeaLife Center duffle bags  Two $75 Cookery gift cards  A hat and water bottle from Salmon Sisters This year, supply donations for the Wildlife Response Program will be accepted at the Wildlife Rescue Run & Walk. Items utilized 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 Rescue Run & Walk program sponsors include BP, ConocoPhillips, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, Silverton Mountain Guides, GCI, and Pet Zoo Alaska. Race sponsors include Alaska Serigraphics, Bright Road Wealth Management, Seward Family Dentistry – Dr. Michael Moriarty DDS, First National Bank Alaska, GraphicWorks, Nautilus Impact Investing, Metco, Petro 49, Seasalt Alaskan Grill & Bar, Seward Parks and Recreation Department, TelAlaska, Klondike Pizzeria, Kruzof, Safeway, Salmon Sisters, Seward Alehouse, Seward Properties, Skinny Raven Sports, Strabel Racing Services, Ted Stevens Foundation, The Cookery & Oyster Bar, and Woody's Thai Kitchen. 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. 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 Questions and requests for high resolution photos may be directed to media@alaskasealife.org.

Seward, Alaska (February 25, 2020)– A young male sea otter pup was admitted to the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) on January 17, 2020.  Thetwo week old otter pup was found stranded on a beach near Seldovia, AK with snowballs embedded in his fur and surrounded by birds. A local resident called the stranding hotline to report that the young otter had been seen alone and there were no other otters in sight. After receiving permission from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Smokey Bay Air donated the flight to get the pup to Homer where a team of volunteers transported the otter to the Center. The sea otter pup, now seven weeks old, is under 24-hour care from our Wildlife Response Team. “Young otter pups like this one need constant care and attention, from grooming his coat to encouraging him to play in the pool. We are with him around-the-clock,” stated Wildlife Response Curator, Jane Belovarac. Currently, the otter is getting fed both formula and solid food every 3 hours. The team has slowly introduced clam into his diet and he is progressing well. Caretakers continue to work on getting him to practice proper grooming skills like rolling in the water and swimming with purpose. This young pup has already proven to be quite the athletic otter as he swims and manipulates toys in the water.   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 sea otters. Since the Alaska SeaLife Center responds to 33,904 miles of coastline, stranding partners and civilians are critical in assisting the Center with wildlife response calls. When an animal is in distress the first reaction is often to tend to it. This can be a mistake as it is sometimes difficult to distinguish distress from normal behavior. Sea otters leave their young in what they perceive to be a safe place while they forage for food. If people or pets are nearby when they return they are likely to abandon their young. Marine mammals have been safeguarded by the Marine Mammal Protection Act since 1972, so any disturbance to them is illegal without permission from the correct government authorities. 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.   About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium, with wildlife response and education programs. 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 or 907-224-6397

Seward, Alaska (June, 24 2020) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted six harbor seal pups into the Wildlife Response Program during the first half of June. The first five pups, four females and one male, were all found stranded in the Cook Inlet area. The most recent male pup, found on June 15, is from Juneau. All of the seals admitted to the program arrived malnourished and dehydrated, but with no other significant injuries. The pups are all in similar stages of recovery, receiving fluids and supplemental tube feedings. The goal is to increase their weight, boost their immune systems, and then teach them to fish before they can hopefully be released back to the area they were found stranded.  Since interns and volunteers could not come to ASLC this summer due to COVID-19, the core Wildlife Response Team is working long hours to care for these six new seal patients and an adult sea otter. “Taking care of six young pups all needing to be tube-fed is a lot of hard work especially with our reduced staffing, but it’s rewarding. We've adapted to COVID-19 restrictions by using staff from other departments instead of hiring seasonal interns and coming up with more efficient ways to manage animal care.” states Dr. Carrie Goertz, Director of Animal Health.  The most recent harbor seal pup was picked up in the Center’s new Wildlife Response van. This vehicle was generously donated by Marathon Petroleum Corporation, HDR Marine, Graphic Works, Partners4Wildlife, Sea Otter Foundation, and Reynolds Marine LLC. This van has arrived at an ideal time in the midst of the stranding season because mobility is vital for the Wildlife Response Team to quickly access patients from all parts of Alaska. Due to the Center’s two-month COVID-19 closure and subsequent reduced visitation, ASLC is more reliant on corporate sponsors and community donors to operate this season. Since the Center is only receiving 25% of normal summer visitation, the costs of caring for patients is becoming increasingly daunting. People are encouraged to donate to the Wildlife Response Program through ASLC’s website: www.alaskasealife.org/donate The Center’s Wildlife Response Program is sponsored in part by Marathon Petroleum Corporation, BP, ConocoPhillips, PetZoo, Partners4Wildlife, HDR Marine, Sea Otter Foundation, Grizzly Pet Products, and the Borman Family Foundation whose generous support helps ASLC care for marine mammals like harbor seals. 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.           -end-

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). 

Seward, Alaska (May 21, 2021)–  The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is saddened to announce the passing of the juvenile ringed seal admitted to the Wildlife Response Program on May 12.   The ringed seal, found in Dutch Harbor, arrived malnourished, dehydrated, and wheezing. Wildlife Response staff vigilantly treated the animal, but unfortunately he passed during the night of May 16. “I thought he had come to us in time as he had an attitude and resisted us when we handled him. However, he was suffering from parasitism, malnutrition, emaciation, dehydration, and a bacterial infection and unfortunately succumbed to those problems,” states ASLC Director of Animal Health, Dr. Carrie Goertz.    The general findings after the preliminary necropsy revealed he was severely immunocompromised, showed signs of bacterial infection likely pneumonia or bronchitis or both, and organ congestion, which is consistent with shock possibly from decreased lung function or infection. The specific cause of death is still unknown and the team at ASLC awaits results from more extensive testing.    The Alaska SeaLife Center thanks Ravn Air for generously donating a flight for this seal from Dutch Harbor. Without their help the animal would not have made it to the Center as quickly. The Center also thanks donors that gave to the seal’s care. The Wildlife Response Program can offer second chances for animals like this ringed seal because of generous program contributors.   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.  

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) admitted two female harbor seal pups to the Wildlife Response Program. On June 2, a harbor seal with dark fur was found alone at an Alaska Department of Fish and Game salmon monitoring weir on the Little Susitna River. The animal appeared to have stranded shortly after birth since the umbilical cord was still fleshy. On June 6, another harbor seal pup with light fur was found alone on a beach in Anchor Point. After checking the beach the following day, the seal had not moved, and no other seals were in the area. Both animals were transported to the Center after receiving National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration approval.   Upon initial admit exams, both harbor seal pups were found to be in relatively stable condition. The team is currently providing various treatments and examining the patients further to identify any threatening conditions. A full press release will be provided with updates on these animals after further monitoring and examination.    The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can provide care for animals like these harbor seals because of donations from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of these patients here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate.    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 is excited to announce the appointment of John Fraser, Ph.D., AIA as the organization’s new Director of Mission Impact beginning on July 17, 2023. Dr. Fraser is a noted international conservation psychologist and architect, known in the zoo and aquarium community for leading research on the social value of zoos and aquariums. Fraser was a founder of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Research and Technology Committee and has continued service on that committee for the past 15 years. “For too long, the contiguous states have lacked the Alaskan voice and experience for guiding the national response to our climate crisis. I am excited by the opportunity to join the ASLC team and the partners throughout Alaska to learn how we can raise all of our voices,” said Dr. Fraser. In this newly created position, Dr. Fraser will work alongside Wei Ying Wong, Ph.D., ASLC Chief Science and Education Officer, and the entire ASLC staff to advance social science research, evaluation and monitoring at the ASLC. Fraser will lead the strategies that use scientific knowledge to most effectively promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems by the stakeholders whose choices will shape the future. “We are lucky to have someone of the caliber of Dr. Fraser join us. With his vast experience we will be able to accelerate the ability of ASLC to expand our impact, and lean into our leadership role” said Dr. Wong.  With more than 91 peer-reviewed journal articles, multiple noteworthy books, and articles, Fraser brings decades of research on how to engage stakeholders and public audiences in the ecological challenges of our age and the role of facility design for endangered species breeding. His book with Tawnya Switzer entitled The Social Value of Zoos (Cambridge University Press) is considered a definitive work on how the zoo and aquarium movement can leverage their authority for advancing conservation of the systems on which all life depends. Previously, Fraser was the leader of major national research strategies for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Association of Children’s Museums, the American Library Association’s Public Programs Office, and PBS NewsHour. 

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a newborn harbor seal pup to the Wildlife Response Program on June 4, 2024. The abandoned pup was rescued from Kenai Beach. An initial call came to the ASLC Wildlife Response Department from a concerned local, who spotted the lone seal while walking along Kenai North beach at night. Pictures sent to the team showed the pup was skinny with its umbilical cord still attached, indicating it was less than a week old. In addition to its poor body condition, the pup’s mother had not been seen for many hours. With approval from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), ASLC volunteers set out to retrieve the pup. Unfortunately, the group was not able to locate it that night. The next morning, a second call came from the Kenai Peninsula Police Department, fielding a stranded pup report from a second concerned observer. After confirming the seal was the same one reported the previous night, ASLC staff worked with police officers and Kenai Animal Control to arrange a pickup. The initial caller agreed to wait with the pup until animal control arrived to place the pup in a kennel, and a police officer provided transport back to the Kenai Beach parking lot. The pup was then handed off to a volunteer and driven back to the ASLC. After an admit exam, the wildlife response and veterinary staff confirmed that the pup was both dehydrated and underweight. The team is currently providing initial stabilizing treatments and examining the patient further to understand the severity of its condition. With this new admit, the wildlife response team now has four harbor seal pups under its care. Updates on current patients will be shared on the ASLC’s Facebook and Instagram pages as they become available. 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. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from supporters like ConocoPhillips Alaska, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, PetZoo, Partners 4 Wildlife, Matson, GCI, and a number of individual donors, funds, and foundations such as Stanley J Williams Fund and the Theresa Bannister Legacy Fund. Those interested in contributing to the care of these patients can visit the ASLC’s website: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. 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).

The Alaska SeaLife Center admitted a unique patient to its Wildlife Response Program on June 16, 2025: a young male spotted seal pup from Nome, Alaska.  Fewer than ten spotted seals have ever been admitted to ASLC in the organization’s history. These Arctic seals are ice-associated animals, typically found along remote stretches of Alaska’s northern coastlines. Though they are commonly seen in these northern waters, recovering a stranded individual does not happen often.  A community member first spotted this spotted seal pup alone on a busy public beach near Nome, Alaska. Photos showed the pup was lethargic and extremely malnourished, and the sighting was quickly relayed through the ASLC’s 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL(7325).  ASLC contacted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which oversees seal strandings. After consultation with the local stranding agreement holder for the area, Nome's local tribal consortium, Kawerak Inc., and the Ice Seal Committee (ISC), the Alaska Native Organization that co-manages ice seals with NOAA, the decision was made to transport the animal to ASLC for urgent care.   Although the male pup was severely emaciated upon arrival, the presence of teeth and absence of a soft, white lanugo coat indicated he was not a newborn, likely around 3 to 4 weeks old. The ASLC wildlife response and veterinary teams have been treating him intensively since his arrival. He is now steadily gaining weight, eating well, and has been given the name “Kova.”  Responding to a stranded ice seal requires navigating both regulatory policy and respect for the Indigenous communities that rely on these animals for subsistence. In rescue situations involving Alaska’s four “ice seal” species (spotted, ringed, ribbon, and bearded), the ASLC follows a precautionary non-release policy developed by NOAA Fisheries and the ISC. Because ice seals transported to Seward for rehabilitation come from remote, culturally significant regions where they remain an essential food source, this policy eliminates the risk of disease transmission between ecosystems by a rescued animal. Therefore, even though Kova has recovered well so far, he will permanently remain in human care. In the meantime, diagnostic testing and ongoing monitoring are helping us better understand diseases that may be affecting wild seal populations and contribute valuable information about his species. Placement discussions are ongoing to ensure he has the best possible long-term home as he continues to gain weight and improve his health. As the only marine mammal rehabilitation facility in Alaska, the ASLC is proud to care for animals from remote regions of the state while working closely with the communities connected to them. Responses like this are made possible through strong partnerships with federal agencies, Tribal and co-management organizations, Indigenous leaders, community members, and more.  We remain committed to these relationships and to protecting the health of ice seal populations, which are vital to the local ecosystem and Alaska Native communities. “We are deeply grateful to the Nome community,” said Wildlife Response Curator Jane Belovarac. “This pup has given us a valuable opportunity to learn and grow as we work to restore its health. Thanks to the support from Gay Sheffield with the UAF Marine Advisory Program, Charles Menadelook with Kawerak, Inc., and the Ice Seal Committee, we’re hopeful this animal will one day serve as an ambassador for the very waters it came from. This rescue wouldn’t have been possible without their collaboration.” Call First!If you encounter a stranded or injured marine animal in Alaska, contact ASLC’s 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL(7325). Do not approach or attempt to move the animal. 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. Supporters can help provide vital care for marine animals in need by donating at www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The ASLC acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from supporters like ConocoPhillips Alaska, 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, M. E. Webber Foundation, The Theresa Bannister Fund, and the NC Giving Fund.           

Become a Member of the Alaska SeaLife Center and you will support research, education, and wildlife response programs Member Benefits Unlimited free admission to the Alaska SeaLife Center for a year from the day you register Guaranteed entry on arrival – No Reservations Needed Digital Membership cards 20% Discount on guest admission 20% Discount on Center tours and encounters 10% Discount on retail prices in the Discovery Gift Shop Exclusive email announcements on special events Reduced admission at other zoos and aquariums through the AZA Reciprocity Program     Choose the membership level that fits you best! Standard Memberships, Family Memberships, or Giving Circle Memberships Standard Memberships Individual $70 One named member Individual Plus $115 One named member and one guest per visit Dual $115 Two named members Dual Plus $160 Two named members and one guest per visit Trio $160 Three named members Join / Renew     Family Memberships* Family $175 Two named members and eligible children and/or grandchildren Family Plus $220 Two named members and eligible children and/or grandchildren and one guest per visit Family Trio $220 Three named members and eligible children and/or grandchildren Family Quad $265 Four named members and eligible children and/or grandchildren Join / Renew *Family levels include the primary member's dependent children ages 17 and younger (and/or grandchildren ages 17 and younger) Giving Circle Memberships SeaLife Associate $300-$499 Complimentary Family Membership Four one-time use guest passes Join / Renew SeaLife Advocate $500-$999 Complimentary Family Membership Eight one-time use guest passes Invitation to an annual virtual CEO update Join / Renew Steller Partner $1,000-$2,499 Complimentary Family Membership Eight one-time use guest passes Invitation to an annual virtual CEO update An exclusive VIP tour of the Center for four Join / Renew Steller Guardian $2,500-$4,999 Complimentary Family Membership Eight one-time use guest passes Invitation to an annual virtual CEO update An exclusive VIP tour of the Center for four Invitation to quarterly VIP virtual programs Join / Renew Steller Patron $5,000-$9,999 Complimentary Family Membership Eight one-time use guest passes Invitation to an annual virtual CEO update An exclusive VIP tour of the Center for four Invitation to quarterly VIP virtual programs Breakfast or lunch with the CEO Join / Renew Steller Champion $10,000+ Complimentary Family Membership Eight one-time use guest passes Invitation to an annual virtual CEO update An exclusive VIP tour of the Center for four Invitation to quarterly VIP virtual programs Breakfast or lunch with the CEO Keeper for a Day, a 5-hour program for one or two people with minimum age of 16 Join / Renew

Distance Learning Visit Alaska…  virtually! Our live, interactive videoconference programs expand your students' scientific experience with engaging multi-media presentations. Using inquiry-based learning, these 55-minute conferences incorporate live animals (whenever possible) and current research programs happening right here at the Alaska SeaLife Center! The materials for each program include a teacher's guide with specific background information and activity ideas, as well as supplies for the session's hands-on activities. Video Sample:  Marine Mammal Adaptations Registration To register for a Distance Learning program, Download the Distance Learning registration form and return it via e-mail. To accommodate shipping materials, reservations must be made at least 30 days in advance. See below for prices and time zone recommendations. Please email distancelearning@alaskasealife.org or call (907) 224-7900 for more information. Program Descriptions PROGRAM NAME GRADES DESCRIPTION Who Lives Where? Pre-K Meet Alaska’s wettest residents! Find out where Alaska’s marine animals live, what they eat, and how they move. Beaks, Bubbles, & Burrows K-3 Observe the diving seabirds in our avian habitat as we discuss the behaviors and adaptations of these intriguing animals. Marine Mammal Adaptations K-5 Discover how these mammals are able to thrive in Alaska's frigid waters by observing our own resident seals and sea lions. Terrific Alaskan Tidepool Travels 1-5 Take a walk through the Alaskan intertidal zone and meet our tough and mysterious local invertebrates. Eat or Be Eaten in Alaska 4-6 Discuss the complexity of food webs by exploring some of Alaska's most interesting animals and ecosystems. Living in the Ring of Fire 5-8 Verify plate tectonic theories by investigating geologic activities around the Pacific plate, specifically here in Alaska. Cephalopods: Squid Dissection 5-9 Get your hands into a "head-footed" animal as we learn more about cephalopods through dissection and discussion! (Please contact us about squid availability. Observation-only sessions are also an option.) Sea Lion Monitoring 6-12 Learn how scientists at the center study a wild population of endangered Steller sea lions hauled out on the Chiswell Islands. Practice remote video monitoring yourself! The Scoop on Poop 6-12 Roll up your sleeves and analyze sea lion scat as we learn more about the hands-on way some of our scientists study these animals' diets.   Prices Program costs include teacher guides, materials* for up to 30 students (additional students are $1 each) and postage. An additional $20.00 may be added to reservations made less than 30 days in advance.   PROGRAM NAME COST Beaks, Bubbles, & Burrows Marine Mammal Adaptations Terrific Alaskan Tidepool Travels Eat or Be Eaten in Alaska Living in the Ring of Fire Sea Lion Monitoring $190.00 The Scoop on Poop $220.00 Cephalopods: Squid Dissection (including squid) $240.00 (squid shipping within U.S. only; if you provide your own squid the program is $190.00)  * International programs: Shipping to countries outside the United States will require an additional fee.  Also, customs procedures may prevent the shipping of physical materials to countries outside of the U.S. - in these cases, we will send materials electronically. Time Zone Recommendations Our distance learning sessions are taught from the exhibits, which rely on natural light. As Alaska's sunrise/sunset times vary dramatically from season to season, the following table lists optimal time recommendations for booking your reservations. There can still be large fluctuations within a calendar month, so these times are only a guide. Additional times may be available - please contact us for more information.   NORTH AMERICAN TIME ZONES (includes daylight savings time) ALASKA PACIFIC MOUNTAIN CENTRAL EASTERN September 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM 9:30 AM - 7:00 PM 10:30 AM - 8:00 PM 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM October 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM 12:30 PM - 9:00 PM November 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM 11:00 AM - 6:30 PM 12:00 PM - 7:30 PM 1:00 PM - 8:30 PM December 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM January 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM February 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM 11:30 AM -8:00 PM 12:30 PM - 9:00 PM March 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM April 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM May 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM June 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM July 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM August 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Technical Requirements We use Zoom to connect.  Please contact us if you have questions about using other platforms. Customized Programs Do your students show exceptional enthusiasm for a particular lesson plan or subject?  With advance notice we can modify existing programs or create specialized programs to accommodate specific lesson goals, ages, or comprehension levels. Sessions are designed to be 55 minutes in length but can be adapted to fit your class period.    

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()         In Antarctica, every day is a work day! If weather permits, the team is up early prepping their gear. Then it's out to the ice for a day of tagging or recapturing seals. When weather conditions are poor, the team spends their time catching up on lab work, downloading data, and maintaining equipment. Watch the video below to learn more about what daily life was like for one of the researchers on this project. VIDEO: A DAY IN THE LIFE John Skinner discusses his daily routine as part of the team working with Weddell seals in Antarctica. (4:21) Video Transcript My name is John Skinner, I’m a Research Associate here at the Alaska SeaLife Center, and I was a part of the team that went down there for this research. Mostly as a logistics coordinator, meaning that I was the one who coordinated all the stuff that we were using out in the field to make sure that it made it from McMurdo station out to the site safely, and that the equipment was being set up properly. A typical day for us was we would start somewhat close to mid-day, because that’s actually the optimal time to find animals hauled out on the ice. We’d get our gear together at the lab and then we would hand carry it out to what they call the Ski-Doo line, where all the snow machines are lined up. My job was to unbury them after the last storm, get them running, warmed up and ready to carry the group out to the field site. Part 1: The Capture When we get out to the site, we have all our equipment and we’ve identified an animal that we’re going to work with that day. One of the huge advantages of the Weddell seals is they just don’t have a response to predators, they don’t really understand that there’s anything dangerous about us. So often a capture event just consisted of walking up to the animal, taking a look to make sure it’s safe for us to approach, and safe for the animal for us to approach, and then taking a large hood, and then sliding it over their head. As soon as the hood goes over they just lay there, and it’s done. They don’t fight, there’s no struggle. We send the vet in and then sedate the animal to make sure that they would be safe to work with. Then my job would kick in, that’s when I would unload the hundred or so pounds of gear and set-up our tripod over the top of the animal and get the animal into a sling, a net the animal could be rolled into, and then hoist the animal into the air and get our weight, our mass. Once we got that mass we would bring out our big tent which was this very compact-when-stored system. We would fold it out, and then basically envelope the people and the animal inside of this tent. Once this was set up we’d work within there safely and actually it was pretty warm inside. First off we would get a blood sample and then we would go ahead and do some measurements of the animal. We need a length and a girth. Then we would start to prep the animal to put the instruments, the data loggers that we use, onto the animal. We had several heat-flux sensors along the animal’s body, at different locations where we’re trying to capture the distribution of heat that the animal is giving off. Then it was just about waking the animal up, making sure that they were happy and healthy before we were willing to let them go off on their own and enter the water again. Part 2: The Recapture When we leave the animal we have a plan for how long they need to stay out in the water for us to collect enough data. So we could sit there at our desks and track the animal’s progress and we had a schedule of when we planned to pick the animal up, but if we saw them moving out towards the open ice edge there was a good possibility we could lose the animal for good and never get those instruments back. So we would track them on a daily basis and see where they were going and then decide pretty much each day a schedule of who we needed to pickup and what a priority that animal would be. We’d start out with a GPS coordinate that we could get from this ARGOS, which is the on-board instrument's tracking system, to head out and we knew approximately where we needed to go. Once we got within a kilometer or two of the animal’s actual location (according to ARGOS) we would use signals from the VHF portion of that, we could track using a handheld antenna. Once we located the animal’s position we would go in and basically assess the situation from a distance, sneaking in and kind of cutting off its path to the water and then putting the hood on it and getting the instruments off and then, just sigh of relief. We don’t stop. Our research is every day, there are no weekends down on the ice. Once back at the station at the end of the day, there's more work to be done. Scientists examine their data, sort and store samples, and clean and repack their gear. Finally, it's time to head to the dining hall, then off to bed to rest up for another day. Scientists come to Antarctica ready to work hard - and the team will continue this daily routine for nearly two months! When the summer melt makes working conditions on the sea ice unsafe, it's time to pack up and return home. Once back in their labs, the science team can finally sit down and begin the process of interpreting their results.       WHO IS STUDYING SEALS?   RECAPTURE (v) - to capture an animal again   INTERPRET (v) - to find the meaning of something  

animatedcollapse.addDiv('1', '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() animatedcollapse.addDiv('2', '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() Who is watching walrus? REMOTE (adj) - far from cities. In Alaska, this almost always means a place that is not on the road system and can only be reached by boat, plane, dogsled, snowmachine, or helicopter. DURATION (n) - the length of time CENSUS (n) - a count of individuals METHOD (n) - the way information is collected STILL CAMERA (n) - a camera that takes photos (not video) COST EFFECTIVE (adj) - worth the price MARITIME (adj) - related to marine (ocean) environments or conditions           The Plan Figuring out how to observe walrus at land haulouts was a challenge for the research team. Their system needed to be: Low cost Low maintenance (because sites are in remote locations) Able to measure duration (from the first walrus to arrive to the last walrus to leave) Able to visually observe the presence of walrus and allow for a census count Able to observe the cause(s) of possible disturbances Minimally disruptive to the animals While brainstorming, many methods were considered. The team thought about using airplanes to fly over haulout sites. They considered asking locals to report observations or stationing their own research staff near haulouts throughout the entire summer season. Finally, the team talked about placing remote video or still cameras at known haulout locations. The pros and cons for each method were evaluated. Flying over sites would be expensive and time consuming because the range of Pacific walruses covers thousands of miles. The sound of low flying planes might also disturb the animals. Local observations are impossible in many areas because haulouts are so remote. And stationing field researchers at known haulouts all season could prove very expensive. In the end, the team concluded that setting up remote cameras was the most cost-effective choice. They also decided that using still cameras set on timers would let them get the most data about how walrus were using land haulouts. Watch the two videos below to learn about the equipment Dr. Polasek's team used and some of the challenges they had to deal with while designing a plan to observe walrus using remote cameras. VIDEO: Equipment But won’t it get wet? Terril Efird talks about the equipment the team chose and how they keep it dry and functioning in the maritime climate. (1 minute) Video Transcript What equipment are you using to study walruses in remote areas? This is an example of one of the camera setups that we’ll have out in the field. It’s a Nikon digital camera, eight megapixel camera, and that’s wired into a 12-volt battery to keep it charged. A lot of these cameras will be going out for months at a time, so keeping the battery charged is really important, and to do that we’ll have a solar panel out there that will charge the larger battery. We’ll put the camera inside of this weatherproof and waterproof housing, and that’ll keep everything nice and dry so the electronics don’t fry while we’re out there. And we’ll have two of these at each of the sites, one looking at the haulout and then another one just looking offshore to see if we can capture any boats or predators of walrus that might be coming by and see how the walrus respond to that. VIDEO: Challenges Terril Efird describes some of the challenges involved in monitoring walrus. (35 seconds) Video Transcript What challenges did you face while planning for this project? One of the most challenges parts was picking our sites. We want to make sure that we have sites where we can go put these cameras up and we know that the walrus are going to come and be at those sites during the season. And not only have the walrus there but also have cliffs or bluffs that we can set these cameras up on top of so we can get a good vantage point, so we can get good estimates of how many walrus are hauling out and also what the immediate water access is like. With these challenges in mind, the scientists put a lot of thought into selecting the best locations to set up their cameras. Continue on to the "Action!" page to see which sites along Alaska's coastline they chose.      

animatedcollapse.addDiv('1', '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() animatedcollapse.addDiv('2', '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() Who is watching walrus? HYPOTHESIS (n) - a scientific explanation to a problem. Scientists form hypotheses to explain something that they observed. Scientists then test the hypothesis to determine how true it is.               Questions   Dr. Lori Polasek is a marine mammal scientist. When she has a scientific question, she designs a research project to help her find answers. She wants to learn how walrus use land haulouts. Dr. Polasek works together with her team to decide which specific questions they hope to answer. With this project, the team wants to learn: How many walruses are using a haulout? How long are they at the haulout? How often do the walruses use a haulout site? They already know that walruses are easily startled by things like airplanes or predators in the area, so they also want to learn more about how walrus react to disturbances while hauled out on land. Watch the videos below to learn more about the questions and hypotheses Dr. Polasek plans to look at with her study. VIDEO: DR. POLASEK'S RESEARCH Questions Learn what questions Dr. Polasek had about walrus that made her want to study them. (1 minute) Video Transcript Why did you want to study walruses? I think walruses as a whole are a very interesting species, they’re very tactile and gregarious. Why I specifically wanted to look at this particular study with walruses is because we had the mortality event that you guys heard about in 2009, where with ice loss moms and calves moved onto a land haulout, and we don’t really understand how the population will interact with humans and other species while they’re hauled out. What questions did you have? The question that I wanted to specifically look at was: what causes walruses to abandon a haulout – what disturbs them – and then how long does it take for them to come back?   VIDEO: DR. POLASEK'S Hypotheses Dr. Polasek explains four hypotheses that she will be testing in this investigation. (1 minute) Video Transcript What are your hypotheses? For this project we have four primary hypotheses specifically looking at disturbance: 1. The first hypothesis is that the new emerging haulouts will have a different reaction than the established haulouts. 2. That ice extent will impact how the two different haulouts will respond to disturbance events. 3. That mother and calves using the new haulouts will have a different reaction to disturbance events than males that are using the pre-established haulouts. 4. And lastly, that the time for recovery from a disturbance event will be different with the females and calves on the new haulouts versus the established haulouts with males. To answer these research questions, Dr. Polasek and her team needed to come up with a way to consistently observe walrus on their haulouts. Join the researchers as they develop a plan for watching walrus.