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 John Moran Research Fisheries Biologist, NOAA/NMFS Auke Bay Laboratories John's role in Gulf Watch Alaska: Pelagic Ecosystems Humpback Whale Program Co-Principal Investigator Important skills for his position: "You definitely need patience, you need to be very tolerant of weather, and just being able to endure things and not really give up." Challenges in his work: "Being on a small boat when it’s really rough, battling the weather, wind and rain, having your expensive camera getting salt spray on it... and then the whales just not cooperating." John's advice to young people interested in science: "I would take math and English. Those are two things that I didn’t really think I needed very much that are very important. Work hard, do things that people don’t want to do. You’re not going to go out and tag whales on your first day, but if you're entering data or doing some of the more tedious things, then you make yourself very useful. And it’s a good way to meet people, a good way to get your foot in the door."   John Moran describes some of the fun and frustrations of tracking humpback whales in the Gulf of Alaska. (0:50) Video Transcript When things change, like this last winter we thought we knew where all the whales were going to be in Port Gravina, and we got out there and they weren’t there. And we were just so sure of ourselves, we’ll just get out there and get a bunch of IDs, it’ll be nice & protected, and we were completely wrong. So when things jump out as being unusual that’s when it gets interesting. You think you have things figured out and you really don’t know what you’re talking about. I really like driving the boat for some reason, I don’t know why maybe it’s the control issue, but for doing photo Id or biopsies especially or tagging, and I do disentanglement work in Southeast and just being the one that maneuvers the boat, gets the boat close to the whales while somebody else maybe does the other things, you feel like you’re the one literally in the driver’s seat.   Who is watching the Gulf?    

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  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() Watch the video below to listen to Yosty wrap up her investigation with the Gulf Watch Alaska scientists. VIDEO: Yosty's Conclusion Yosty reviews her investigation with the Gulf Watch Alaska scientists. (1:06) Video Transcript What Seth and other scientists have discovered is that the lack of cooling was so severe that it created a large area of warmer-than-usual water in the North Pacific. This area of warm water, called “the blob” by some scientists, had a reduced level of mixing between the lower and upper ocean layers. The puzzling impacts of this phenomenon are what the scientists of Gulf Watch Alaska are starting to piece together. It may have played an important part in the massive die-offs of seabirds like the common murre, because as we learned from Kathy scientists suspect that the murres were not receiving enough food to pile on their important fat reserves. Sonia mentioned that the bloom of phytoplankton was less productive than it had been in the past. And as we know, that could have a ripple effect throughout the entire food web, impacting everything from the tiniest of plankton to forage fish like herring and on up to their predators such as the murres. With the decrease in marine nutrients, apex predators like the mightiest of whales or even humans could be impacted by this situation. The potential consequences of “the blob” may seem frightening, but Gulf Watch scientists will be keeping an eye out for this and similar anomalies to better understand the health of the Gulf of Alaska. By combining their different areas of expertise, the Gulf Watch scientists were able to begin solving the mystery of the dying seabirds in the Gulf of Alaska but many questions remained. The Gulf Watch team will continue working together to understand not only how the ecosystem continues to recover from the Exxon Valdez oil spill, but also how the Gulf of Alaska continues to change as a result of other types of changes, both natural and human-caused in the ocean through interactions of Earth systems. Help the scientists of Gulf Watch Alaska continue to monitor ‘The Blob’ as the seasons change. Click here to access the Alaska ‘Blob’ Tracker.     Who is watching the Blob?   Expertise (n): expert skill or knowledge in a certain area of study    

Seward, Alaska (March 4, 2020) – Nat Geo WILD has announced that the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC), the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) and the Alaska Raptor Center (ARC) will be highlighted in a new series, “Alaska Animal Rescue” produced by Symbio Studios.   From Nat Geo WILD:  “This groundbreaking series follows wildlife heroes from these three renowned conservation centers as they respond to animals in need. Whether caring for a stranded sea lion, an orphaned lynx or an injured eagle, these are the people on the front lines, willing to do whatever it takes to rescue and preserve Alaska’s wildlife. The Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward monitors the state’s 6,640 miles of coastline, helping a diverse range of marine life, including walruses, whales, otters and octopuses. Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka specializes in the state’s airborne animals, like bald eagles, owls and other birds of prey. And the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage takes on the biggest and most iconic land animals, including bears, wolves and bison. These dedicated first responders, veterinarians and animal caretakers, work hands on — day in and day out — through dangerous terrain and unforgiving climates to rescue and rehabilitate these animals to make sure this wild state stays wild.”   “The Alaska SeaLife Center responds to injured and orphaned marine mammal and seabirds as part of our mission to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems.  We appreciate this platform to share our work and inspire others to care for our oceans and its animals,” said Tara Riemer, Alaska SeaLife Center President and CEO.   “The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is incredibly honored to be a part of National Geographic’s Alaska Animal Rescue. All of our animals have a story and we are grateful to be able to share some of them. We hope that everyone will enjoy the show and get to know and love our resident wildlife the way we do,” said Di Whitney, Executive Director, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.   Jennifer Cross, Executive Director, Alaska Raptor Center stated, “We are proud to be involved in such a meaningful project along with two other amazing non-profit organizations, each having passionate and dedicated people working tirelessly in the name of animal welfare.”   “Alaska Animal Rescue” premieres April 11 at 9/8c (5pm Alaska time) on Nat Geo WILD. Watch a ten-minute preview now on the National Geographic website: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/shows/alaska-animal-rescue     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.       About the AWCC Founded in 1993, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation is a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, education, research and quality animal care. AWCC takes in injured and orphaned animals and provides them with enclosures at a 200-acre facility in Portage, Alaska. Most of the animals that arrive at AWCC become permanent residents. To learn more, visit www.alaskawildlife.org.   About the ARC Established in 1980, the Alaska Raptor Center’s mission is to promote and enhance wild populations of raptors and other avian species through rehabilitation, education, and research. ARC provides medical treatment to about 200 injured birds each year, striving to rehabilitate and release its avian patients. Some birds who are too injured to survive in the wild find sanctuary at the facility in Sitka, Alaska, providing educational opportunities to visitors. To learn more, visit www.alaskaraptor.org.  

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a male northern sea otter pup to the Wildlife Response Program on October 31, 2023, the third pup rescued this year. The approximately three-week-old pup arrived late Halloween night after a long transport from the remote coastal town of Seldovia, AK, and is currently under 24-hour care by wildlife response staff.   The pup was first spotted swimming near the docks and vocalizing in distress, its mother nowhere in sight. Although Northern sea otter mothers will leave their pup’s side for short intervals to hunt and forage, concerned onlookers noted that the pup was still alone after nearly two hours and contacted the ASLC via its 24-hour stranding hotline (888-774-7325).    While on the phone with wildlife response staff, onlookers noticed an adult sea otter approaching the pup in an aggressive manner. It was determined that this was likely a territorial male, raising additional concerns for the pup’s safety. With approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the pup was picked up to be transported to the ASLC for rehabilitation. Though the pup’s mother was never spotted, a deceased female adult sea otter was found in the area shortly before its rescue, offering a potential explanation for the pup’s abandonment.   The main concerns found by the ASLC veterinary team upon the initial admit exam were dehydration, malnourishment, and lacerations on the pup’s muzzle, likely sustained during its struggle with the aggressive adult. The team is currently providing stabilizing treatments and examining the patient further to understand the severity of his condition.   Sea otter pups require 24/7 care, which will continue for the first six months of the pup’s life. During this critical period, pups rely entirely on their mothers for grooming and nutrition, needs that will instead be monitored and provided for by staff.    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 Alaska, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, PetZoo, Partners 4 Wildlife, Matson, GCI, and a number of individual donors, funds, and foundations such as the Stanley J Williams Fund, Mesara Family Foundation, and the NC Giving Fund.  

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?    

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) and International Bird Rescue (IBR) finalized a mutual services agreement to train, prepare, and respond to wildlife impacted by oil spills together. ASLC and IBR have a common mission of helping animals in need and after two years of strategizing have finalized an official partnership to strengthen oil spill response. “This union is critical because we will expand our response capabilities exponentially. We can do more for animals working together than working independently,” explains ASLC Chief Operating Officer, Chip Arnold. The organizations boast a combined 70 plus years of knowledge in wildlife response. ASLC has over 20 years of experience rescuing and rehabilitating marine mammals throughout the state of Alaska. Additionally, ASLC created mobile response conex units in 2016 to deploy in the event of a spill. These units provide the ability to bring a condensed version of the Center directly to affected zones. IBR has over 50 years of experience and expertise in managing wildlife programs in oil spills, predominantly caring for marine species of birds impacted by spills. “As International Bird Rescue reflects on our half century of successful wildlife emergency response including the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill, we deeply appreciate that partnerships are and will always be key to successful projects. We are excited to be able to bring the resources and talents of both organizations to provide the best possible care for Alaskan wildlife in crisis,” said IBR Chief Executive Officer, JD Bergeron. 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. About IBR: Since 1971, International Bird Rescue has provided oiled wildlife collection, rehabilitation and documentation services on an assured basis for companies that transport or hold petroleum products. They research best practices at crisis response hospitals in California and Alaska and share them worldwide. To learn more, visit www.birdrescue.org 

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.

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?           Meet... Dr. Lori Polasek   Marine Mammal Scientist and Assistant Research Professor for the School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Dr. Polasek has studied many species of seals, sea lions, fur seals, walrus, whales and dolphins. She was an accounting major in college until she took a required biology class – then she changed her major to marine biology and never looked back! "I became interested in marine biology when I learned how to SCUBA dive when I was 12 years old. I wanted to learn more about how animals were capable of surviving in such extreme conditions without suffering the consequences humans experienced."     Hear Dr. Polasek describe her work at the Alaska SeaLife Center and how she got to this point in her career. (2.5 minutes)      

Seward, Alaska (May 21, 2019) –The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) responded to two juvenile northern elephant seals hauled out on the shores of Seward, Alaska. Since opening in 1998, the ASLC has responded to eleven elephant seals in the state. Although northern elephant seals are known to visit the Gulf of Alaska to feed, they rarely are found on the beaches of Alaska. These seals had flipper tags, which identified their birthing area as Kings Range and Piedras Blancas, California. ASLC’s Wildlife Response Team did not actively monitor the first elephant seal stranding because this seal was sufficiently secluded from heavy use areas. After resting several days, the seal swam off on its own. The second elephant seal hauled out in a high traffic area near the Seward Harbor. ASLC staff relocated the seal via boat to a quiet location within Resurrection Bay. A week later, on May 14, this animal was again beached south of town at Lowell Point. Traffic signs were placed around the seal notifying the public to keep a respectful distance. Within two days, the seal swam off. Seals haul out on Alaska beaches when it is time to molt (shed their hair). Molting is a very energetically demanding process for pinnipeds, especially for elephant seals. Elephant seals experience a catastrophic molt where they lose all their fur at once. ASLC Wildlife Response Curator, Jane Belovarac notes, “When elephant seals are in their molt, they can look sickly. They don’t just lose their hair, but they also shed the underlying segments of skin as well.” ASLC professionals are confident that while these animals appear lethargic and injured, it is due to their molt. Both elephant seals that were reported in Seward had robust and healthy body conditions, and did not require veterinary treatment. “While it is unusual to see northern elephant seals on the beaches of Alaska, it is not outside their range of behavior,” said Wildlife Research Biologist Sharon Melin, with NOAA Fisheries’ Alaska Fisheries Science Center. “During their solitary migration, individuals haul out in small numbers all along west coast beaches. After the long migration from California to feeding areas near Alaska, the juvenile seals may have needed to haul out to rest before continuing their migration or foraging activities.” The northern elephant seal is the largest of the “true” seal in the Northern Hemisphere. Adult males use their large inflatable noses during the winter breeding season to resonate sound when vocally threatening each other. The largest colonies of northern elephant seals are found off southern California in the Channel Islands. They have one of the longest migrations of any mammal; some have been recorded traveling over 13,000 miles roundtrip. 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.NOAA Fisheries statewide Alaska Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline number is 877-925-7773. 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. 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 marine resources. Join us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and our other social media channels. To learn more, visit www.alaskafisheries.noaa.gov.

  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 Sonia Batten Biological Oceanographer, Sir Alister Hardy Foundation for Ocean Science Sonia's role in Gulf Watch Alaska: Environmental Drivers Principal Investigator Important skills for her position: Basic science training, interest in small things, interest in seeing both "big pictures" and patterns Challenges in her work: "Anything to do with studying the ocean is challenging because you can’t sample enough of it to really understand what is going on. So trying to understand what’s going on across the horizontal region, down through the water column, and through time is really hard because they all change, all of the time." Sonia's advice to young people interested in science: "If you have a questioning mind and you like looking at the way the world works, then you are a scientist.  How you use that in a career could be anything from teaching, to talking with politicians to try and get policies that will help a community - there are so many different things. I would just say that it may not be the dry and dusty thing that you think it is. You can be a scientist and have a huge range of careers. If you are interested in things like that, keep your mind open for opportunities where you can use science." Sonia Batten discusses one of the coolest things about the ocean. (0:31) Video Transcript I think the coolest thing is that you can take a bucket of seawater, you can filter out the stuff and put it under a microscope and show people and they go, “Oh my god, I didn’t know I was swimming with that!” You can look at a crab larvae, a little tiny crab before it settles out under the microscope, and it’s got, some of them have spines that are three times the length of their body sticking out, and they look like alien things, and you have no idea that you’re swimming with that kind of thing, and yeah – I think that’s cool.   Who is watching the Blob?    

The Alaska SeaLife Center admitted a northern fur seal pup to the Wildlife Response Program on January 31, 2023. Fur seals are relatively uncommon wildlife response patients, and have not been cared for at the ASLC since 2017.   The female pup, estimated to be around six months old, was seen swimming erratically near the shore in Sitka, Alaska. Her abnormal behavior worried local residents, who reported the pup to the ASLC 24-hour stranding hotline (1-888-774-7325). Sitka is an unusual location to see northern fur seals this time of year, which raised concerns for her survival by ASLC staff. After receiving approval from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the animal was transported to the Center for treatment.   The main concerns found by the ASLC veterinary team upon the initial admit exam were dehydration, malnourishment, and signs of an unknown infection found in her bloodwork. Despite these concerns, she was observed to be active and alert when handled. The team found no evidence of severe physical trauma; however, noted that the pup seems smaller than average for her age. Staff are currently providing initial treatments and examining the patient further to understand more details about her condition.    The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can only provide care for stranded and injured marine animals with help from federal grants, corporate sponsors, and individual donors. Those interested are encouraged to contribute to the care of rehabilitating marine animals here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of its Wildlife Response Program from companies like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Matson, PetZoo, GCI, and a number of individual donors, funds, and foundations such as The Stanley J. Williams Fund, Mesara Family Foundation, and The NC Giving Fund.         

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 Dan Esler Scientist, US Geological Survey Alaska Science Center Dan's role in Gulf Watch Alaska: Lingering Oil Program Principal Investigator Important skills for his position: Ability to stay warm in the winter! Challenges in his work: "Any time you’re working with wild animals, it’s always a challenge… it requires a bit of a hunter’s mentality almost, to think about what the animal is thinking and where they are going to be and try to incorporate that into your trap set-up." Dan's advice to young people interested in science: "Start by volunteering on field projects and getting to know people that are in the business… Do what you can to get into the system and really get to know what a wildlife research career looks like." Dan Esler describes what he loves about fieldwork in the Gulf of Alaska. (0:37) Video Transcript There are some really spectacular moments in the field, and that really is the payoff for a lot of the hard work that we do. There are so many interesting things that you see when you’re out and about that the general public often doesn’t really get to see. There’s spectacular scenery, and I think about the herring spawns that I’ve seen on Montague Island, with marine mammals and birds and everything congregated and foraging on herring spawn, just some spectacular moments that are hard to see anywhere else in the world really.   Who is watching the Gulf?    

Seward, AK – September 1, 2015 – This summer, two ice seals from the Bering Sea received much-needed medical care from the Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response team. As the only permanent marine rehabilitation center in Alaska, the Center’s Wildlife Response team has spent 17 years building a recognized expertise on caring for seals that have been found distressed. Every summer, the ASLC’s Wildlife Response program rehabilitates 6-12 harbor seals and may see ice seals every other year. This summer, two ice seals were admitted within one month of each other.   The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response team admitted a two week-old spotted seal pup from Nome on June 19, 2015. The male pup weighed 8.6 kg (19 pounds) on arrival and was initially fed a formula that contains all of the nutrients and calories needed to help seal pups grow. The pup has now graduated to a diet of herring, capelin, and pollock. His most recent weight was 15.6 kg (34 pounds).     On July 16, a male ringed seal from the Stebbins area was also admitted. Veterinary staff believe the ringed seal is about one year-old and was experiencing a challenging molt when it was spotted by a concerned local hunter. The seal was brought in with wounds and signs of dehydration. His weight when admitted was 11.8 kg (26 pounds), and he was tube-fed fluids until he was rehydrated. Since he is a yearling, he has been on a diet of herring, capelin, pollock, and clams since arrival.      Both ice seals are currently in good condition. NOAA has determined that ice seals rehabilitated outside of their usual range are not releasable; therefore, the ringed seal and spotted seal admitted this summer will be cared for at ASLC until a long-term placement facility is identified. This week, visitors to the Alaska SeaLife Center may spy a spotted seal swimming with one of the harbor seals in an outdoor holding pool, which can be viewed from the overlook near the Discovery Touch Pool.    Ringed and spotted seals are classified as “ice seals” because they spend the majority of their lives on or near sea ice. The other two ice seal species in Alaska are the bearded seal and ribbon seal. For these species, Bering and Arctic sea ice provides habitat for birthing and rearing pups. Ice seals are difficult to study because they tend not to live in congregated packs and they are difficult to access in their natural habitat. They are so adept at living with sea ice that they can create camouflaging snow dens and difficult-to-find breathing holes that typically protect them from predators above the ice.    Ice seals rescued by the Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response program provide important information to researchers about these elusive species. Sea ice habitats are diminishing in the Arctic due to climate change, making ongoing research about ice seals a high priority. Over the past year, the ASLC response team has also designed Mobile Treatment and Rehabilitation Enclosures (MTRE) that will be staged along the Arctic coast, so that their expertise in rehabilitating ice seals can be immediately engaged should there be a catastrophic event.    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 who have found a stranded or sick marine animal to avoid touching or approaching the animal.  Call first!  1-888-774-SEAL  

Seward, Alaska (October 7, 2019)– The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is pleased to welcome six new members to its Board of Directors. The new board members will serve three year terms. Kate Consenstein is the principal and owner of Rising Tide Communications in Anchorage, Alaska. She specializes in public relations, campaign development, strategic communications, branding, integrated messaging, content creation, social media, and freelance writing.  Kate is a graduate from the University of Alaska Anchorage and spends her free time cooking, fishing, and traveling. Joshua Kindred is the Regional Solicitor for the Alaska Region for the U.S. Department of the Interior. Prior to that, Joshua was the Assistant District Attorney for the State of Alaska and Environmental Counsel for the Alaska Oil and Gas Association. He is a graduate of the University of Alaska Anchorage and the Willamette University College of Law. Joshua lives in Anchorage with his wife Talitha and two children. Scott Meszaros is the City Manager for the City of Seward, Alaska. He is a career public management sector employee with 26 years of service. He has extensive experience with land use and rapidly growing communities. Scott is a Certified Public Manager from the International City Managers Association and a Certified Municipal Clerk from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. He is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys bowhunting, camping, backpacking, and fishing. He and his wife Stacey of 24 years have three grown children. Roslyn Mitchell is a Senior Account Manager for Matson, Alaska. She brings over 20 years of experience in the field of Transportation and Logistics. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Alaska Pacific University. In her free time, Roslyn enjoys boating on Prince William Sound, kayaking, and hiking with her husband Mark. Brian Pinkston is the founder and President of Bright Road Wealth Management in Anchorage, Alaska. He has worked in the financial industry for over 22 years. He is a Certified Financial Planner, a Chartered Financial Analyst, and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas A&M University and a Master of Business Administration from the Goizueta Business School at Emory University. He enjoys traveling and outdoor activities such as competition swimming, SCUBA diving, hiking, and camping. Darryl Schaefermeyer returns to the Board of Directors after a 23 year hiatus during which he served as General Manager and Operations Director for the Alaska SeaLife Center.  Darryl previously worked as a staff assistant to the late United States Senator Ted Stevens and was also the City Manager for the City of Seward. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Brigham Young University. Darryl lives in Seward with his wife Karla and many of their children and grandchildren. “Kate, Joshua, Scott, Roslyn, Brian, and Darryl add to the considerable depth of experience, skill, and community engagement of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s Board of Directors. We are fortunate they are joining the team and bringing with them fresh insights, ideas, and enthusiasm for our mission of sustaining Alaska’s marine ecosystems,” said Alaska SeaLife Center Board Chair Wendy Lindskoog. About ASLC: Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), 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.      See full press release here. 

Seward, Alaska (February 9, 2021)– The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is pleased to welcome Rachel Kallander as the newest member to its Board of Directors, and announces the election of two new officers: Board Chair Terry Lauck of ConocoPhillips Alaska, Inc.; and Vice Chair Josie Hickel of Chugach Alaska Corporation. These appointments took place at the Alaska SeaLife Center Board of Directors’ annual meeting in September 2020. Rachel Kallanderis Managing Partner of Kallander & Associates LLC, an advocacy and political strategy firm in Anchorage, and Founder and Executive Director of Arctic Encounter (AES), a nonprofit organization. AES convenes the largest annual Arctic policy event in the U.S. in addition to international events with global partners throughout the circumpolar north. Hailing from her roots in a Cordova fishing family, Rachel brings over a decade of public relations, policy development, campaign, and strategic communications experience to the ASLC Board. Having served as professional staff in the U.S. Congress and the Alaska State Legislature, and in leadership positions on several statewide political campaigns, Rachel brings broad experience in the Arctic, fisheries, legal, and political sectors. Rachel will serve on the Board of Directors for a three-year term and sit on its Marketing & Communications Committee. Terry Lauckis the Director of Environment & Permitting for ConocoPhillips Alaska, Inc. Originally from Nebraska, Terry has been employed by ConocoPhillips for over 32 years, having held a variety of environmental, regulatory, and process improvement assignments in five different states before relocating to Alaska in 2014. Terry has been a dedicated member on the Board of Directors since January 2015. He previously chaired the board’s Development and Governance committees and will serve as the Board Chair for the next two years. Josie Hickel is the Executive Vice President of ANSCA and Community Affairs for the Chugach Alaska Corporation. A lifelong Alaskan and Chugach Shareholder originally from Seward, Josie has nearly 20 years of executive level experience in business management and administration in the state. She has held past positions with Petro 49, Inc., The Pebble Partnership, The Wilson Agency, and National Bank of Alaska. She currently serves on the board of the Alaska Oil Industry Support Alliance, Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council, and is a member of the Anchorage ATHENA Society. Josie has been a member on the Board of Directors since September 2017 and will serve as its Vice Chair for the next two years.“I’m thrilled we have such strong leaders stepping in, and the addition of Rachel Kallander to this group just amplifies the depth of experience, skill, and community engagement of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s Board of Directors. We are in good hands!” said Immediate Past Chair Wendy Lindskoog.“I’m honored and humbled to step into the role of the Board Chair to work alongside such a dedicated, passionate and diverse group of individuals that comprise the board and staff of the Alaska SeaLife Center. Despite an incredibly challenging and tumultuous 2020, all nine board members with a three-year term expiring in October 2020 chose to renew their board memberships for another term. The commitment of this entire team is inspiring, and I’m proud to lead them down the path of sustainably fulfilling our mission,” said Board Chair Terry Lauck. ASLC Board of Directors: Terry Lauck, Chair Josie Hickel, Vice Chair Christy Terry, Secretary Rachel Bunnell, Treasurer Wendy Lindskoog, Past Chair Thomas Barrett Martin Cary Kate Consenstein Larry Cooper Bridget Coughlin Angel Drobnica Stephen Grabacki Dan Graham Josh Howes Rachel Kallander Nicole Kimball Joshua Kindred Lu Levoy Peter Micciche Roslyn Mitchell Bradley Moran Brian Pinkston Darryl Schaefermeyer Herb Schroeder Ryan Stuart Robert Suydam Tom Tougas Daniel White About ASLC: Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), 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.       -end-

The Wildlife Response Program patients include a young harbor seal and a sea otter pup Seward, Alaska (Sept. 14, 2022) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) recently admitted two patients to the Wildlife Response Program, a young male harbor seal (the third admitted in 2022) and a male sea otter pup. The harbor seal pup was reported by the captain of a local charter fishing boat on August 22, 2022 after the pup climbed onto the boat’s deck near Hive Island, about 15 miles south of Seward in Resurrection Bay. Photographs sent to the ASLC showed a skinny, young male harbor seal pup. Upon meeting the boat in the harbor, it was clear to ASLC staff by the seal’s exhausted appearance and quiet behavior that he would need immediate medical attention. After receiving National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration approval, the pup was transported back to the Alaska SeaLife Center for treatment. After an initial examination, veterinary staff estimated that the seal was around two months old and was likely separated from his mother or weaned prematurely. The team’s main concerns were malnourishment, dehydration, and lethargy. Some wounds were also noted on the seal’s flippers. Once hydrated with supportive fluids, the seal quickly took to eating fish on his own. Recovering from starvation can be a slow process, and the team is currently providing additional stabilizing treatments and monitoring the patient further to understand the severity of his conditions. The second rescue occurred September 7, 2022 after a caller to the ASLC’s 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline (888-774-7325) reported a pair of otters on a remote beach in the western Kenai Peninsula. Observers sent photographs and described a disheartening scene to ASLC hotline operators. They saw a moribund female sea otter that was barely moving or breathing with her juvenile pup vocalizing on top of her. The condition of the mother was dire, and the team determined she would likely not survive a transport back to Seward or treatment. Efforts were then focused on saving the male pup, estimated to be around four months old and too young to survive on its own. With approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the pup was admitted to the ASLC Wildlife Response program for care. The original observers were able to return to the remote site the next day and confirm that the adult had passed away. The pup was examined upon arrival to ASLC and found to be underweight, but otherwise alert and strong. After the exam, he was swimming energetically and eating solid food. Over the next several days the team will be closely monitoring him for signs of illness or challenges keeping his coat in good condition. You can follow the ASLC on Facebook and Instagram for more updates on these rescue patients as the team works to nurse them back to health. The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can provide care for animals like these thanks to 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, GCI, and a number of individual donors. Call 1-888-774-SEAL(7325) if you see any marine mammal in distress in Alaska.      

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. 

Seward, Alaska — On January 27, 2025, the Executive Office of the President issued an executive order temporarily pausing agency grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs. This order takes effect on January 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time.  The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has been aware of the possibility of such a measure and has been proactively planning to address its potential impacts. We have already begun implementing steps to mitigate these effects and ensure the continuity of our critical programs and operations.  The care and well-being of the animals entrusted to ASLC remain the organization’s highest priority. "We want to assure the public that our animals will continue to receive the world-class care they deserve," said Dr. Wei Ying Wong, President and CEO of the Alaska SeaLife Center.  "Their health and safety are non-negotiable, and we are allocating resources to ensure this  commitment is upheld."  The funding freeze represents a challenge but reaffirms the necessity for ASLC to continue diversifying its funding sources to ensure greater long-term stability for its mission-critical work.  "We understand that times of uncertainty can be difficult," Wei Ying continued. "Our team is working diligently to evaluate the full scope of this situation and its implications. As we navigate  this road ahead, we are committed to transparency and keeping our community and stakeholders  informed."  The Alaska SeaLife Center remains steadfast in its mission to generate and share scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The  organization appreciates the ongoing support of its staff, partners, and community as it works to build a stronger, more sustainable future.  

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, AK (November 14, 2018)– The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) recently released a male harbor seal from Clam Gulch on November 8, at Bishop’s Beach in Homer. On July 15, bystanders first spotted the animal lying on the beach in Clam Gulch. After consulting with the ASLC Wildlife Response Team, Homer resident and ASLC Volunteer, Marc Webber, observed the seal from a distance. The seal was found very thin and not using his right flipper. Once he was recovered from the shore, Webber transported the seal to Soldotna, where he was met by ASLC’s wildlife responders. This harbor seal was treated for a bone infection at the end of his right flipper. He was estimated to be about two months old, and quickly began eating as his health improved. Due to this animal’s injury, he required care longer than most seals. The staff remained cautiously optimistic that he would regain use of his flipper and become eligible for release. Since arrival, he has more than doubled in body weight going from 22 to 44 pounds in preparation for a release during the winter. ASLC veterinarian, Dr. Kathy Woodie states, “We’re so pleased he has made a full recovery. The goal of our Wildlife Response Team is always to work towards returning the animal to the wild when possible, so cases like this are always special.”  The Wildlife Response Team released this seal Thursday, November 8, on Bishop’s Beach in Homer. A group of ASLC’s local volunteers were there to assist and observe the successful release of the seal back to the wild.  Prior to the seal’s release ASLC Corporate Donor, GCI, was given the opportunity to name this seal because of their level of financial commitment to the Wildlife Response program. On Election Day, GCI encouraged the public to vote on a name for this rescued harbor seal. The name selected was Hubbard, fitting this year’s naming theme of Alaskan glaciers. With the Alaska SeaLife Center responding to stranded marine mammals along 33,904 miles of coastline, volunteers are critical. ASLC President and CEO Tara Riemer explains, “As a non-profit, we could not have brought Hubbard full circle without our dedicated staff, volunteers, donors, and community. A special thank you to GCI for their support of the release of this seal." If you want to follow along with other Wildlife Response Team stories, check the Rescue and Rehab Journal at the Center’s website at www.alaskasealife.org/rescue_rehab_journal. 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. We are excited to be celebrating 20 years of generating and sharing scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. Over 80% of the funding for the Center’s wildlife response program comes from charitable contributions. The Center is thankful for the generous support of visitors, donors and our 2018 corporate sponsors, including BP Alaska, ConocoPhillips Alaska, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, PetZoo, Silverton Mountain Guides, and GCI. 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 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 (ASLC) admitted a female harbor seal pup to the Wildlife Response Program on July 4, 2021.   The seal was spotted on Fox Island, a popular landmark in Resurrection Bay, on July 3. Observers noticed the animal had a bloody neck and reported it to the ASLC Stranding Hotline. The following day, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration officers were able to locate the animal and quickly transport it to the Center.    The veterinary team is focused on treating the many puncture wounds the pup likely sustained from a potential animal attack or failed predation attempt. The team will assess the patient further with radiographs and more in-depth exams to understand the severity of the animal’s condition. Updates on this harbor seal will be provided after further monitoring and examination.     The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can provide care for animals like this 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 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 implications of the research described in Southern Exposure stretch beyond the Antarctic. The data Dr. Mellish and her team have collected by studying Weddell seals can be used to make predictions about how other ice-dependent species, such as Arctic species like ringed seals and walrus, may react to changing conditions in their own local environments. Concerned about how climate change will impact our planet? Educate yourself about how humans are impacting climate in the Arctic and around the globe. Do your part to help lessen our impact: Learn about your carbon footprint and which earth-friendly actions you can take in your everyday life.         WHO IS STUDYING SEALS?