The Alaska SeaLife Center is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2023 Alaska Ocean Leadership Awards.   These awards are given annually to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the awareness and sustainability of the state’s marine resources. The Alaska SeaLife Center appreciates the support provided by the award sponsors and thanks the awards committee members (Jason Brune, Ginny Eckert, Lynn Palensky, Brian Pinkston, Robert Suydam, and Sheyna Wisdom) for their assistance in selecting the award recipients. These awards will be presented at the Alaska Marine Science Symposium on January 23 and the Alaska SeaLife Center Soiree on February 18, both in Anchorage.   Vera Metcalf will receive the prestigious Walter J. and Ermalee Hickel Lifetime Achievement Award. Following the footsteps of the late Governor Walter J. Hickel and the late Ermalee Hickel, the Hickel Family continues to sponsor this award to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the management of Alaska’s coastal and ocean resources for more than 20 years. Vera Metcalf has held the position of Eskimo Walrus Commission (EWC) Director for over 20 years. She is a recent inductee to the Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame, an honor given to women who have influenced the direction of Alaska. Vera has held several positions including Commissioner on the U.S. Arctic Research Commission, a member of the Inuit Circumpolar Council, and currently serves as a Special Advisor on Native Affairs with the U.S. Marine Mammal Commission. She works and communicates easily with scientists, researchers, political appointees, tribal leaders, and EWC members to ensure ocean resources are available for generations to come. Leading the EWC, Vera represents Alaska’s coastal walrus hunting communities in the co-management of the Pacific walrus and ensures that scientific and Indigenous Knowledge research is conducted responsibly and utilized effectively in management decisions regarding the Pacific walrus population.   Dr. Sue Moore, Ph.D., will receive the Marine Research Award. This award is sponsored by Drs. Clarence Pautzke and Maureen McCrea. This honor is given to a scientist, team of scientists, or an institution that is acknowledged by peers to have made an original breakthrough contribution to any field of scientific knowledge about Alaska’s oceans. Dr. Sue Moore has studied Arctic marine mammals and their ecosystems since 1981, with a focus on the northern Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort seas. Dr. Moore served as the Cetacean Program Leader and Director of NOAA’s Alaska Fisheries Science Center’s Marine Mammal Laboratory, and as a Research Scientist and Senior Scientist at NOAA’s Office of Science and Technology. She has authored or co-authored more than 130 peer-reviewed articles and has consistently emphasized, promoted, and used long-term studies as the basis for her many scientific contributions. She is recognized for her expertise and contributions to science related to how the Arctic ecosystem functions and to the stewardship of upper trophic-level species. In 2020, she received the International Arctic Science Committee Medal in recognition of her outstanding achievement in understanding marine mammals as ecosystem sentinels and how climate change is influencing the phenology of Arctic species. In addition to her extensive science contributions, Dr. Moore has served on many boards and commissions, including the International Whaling Commission’s Scientific Committee and numerous advisory and steering committees for the National Science Foundation. Earlier this month, she was appointed by President Biden as one of three Commissioners on the U.S. Marine Mammal Commission.   Catherine Walker will receive the Marine Science Outreach Award. This award is given to a person, team, or organization that has made an outstanding contribution to ocean literacy via formal or informal education, media, or other communications. It is sponsored by the Alaska Ocean Observing System. Catherine Walker is a National Board Certified science teacher at Dimond High in Anchorage, teaching marine biology/oceanography, essentials of engineering, and drone aviation. Seeking to enrich the experiences of her students and empower the next generation of ocean stewards, Catherine is involved in the school’s Ocean Club, Green Effects Club, field trips to Kasitsna Bay and Prince William Sound, the National Ocean Science Bowl, has helped Dimond High become a NOAA Ocean Guardian School, and is a member of the NOAA Pacific Educators Network. Catherine has served as an adjunct professor through Prince William Sound College and is continually working to innovate and collaborate with other teachers and community members to better serve her student’s understanding of our oceans and the need for conservation of Alaska’s unique and vital ecosystems. Through her work, Catherine has increased ocean literacy for thousands of youth and adults. A winner of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching as well as a National Geographic Certified Educator, Catherine is described as a tireless advocate for education and for the improvement of Alaska’s marine ecosystems.   Patrick Simpson, Alaska Plastic Recovery, LLC will receive the Stewardship and Sustainability Award. This award is sponsored by Jason Brune and honors an industry leader that demonstrates the highest commitment to sustainability of ocean resources. Patrick Simpson of Alaska Plastic Recovery, LLC is working to create innovative solutions to assess, collect, and utilize plastic ocean waste found on Alaskan beaches. An engineer and entrepreneur based in Anchorage, Simpson is working to develop technologies specifically for Alaska. One of these technologies includes creating plastic-based lumber from marine debris with a mobile plastic ocean waste recycler that is designed within a shipping container to be used even in remote communities. Simpson and Alaska Plastic Recovery LLC are also in development to include heavy-lift drones to remove bags of marine debris on beaches and marine learning algorithms that can be used to assess the debris. Simpson engages high school students to demonstrate these technologies. Taking the major worldwide problem of plastic marine debris pollution and turning it into an opportunity, Simpson’s exciting and inventive efforts will result in cleaner beaches and oceans and reduce microplastics in our marine ecosystems.   Mia Siebenmorgen Cresswell will receive the Ocean Youth Award. The Ocean Youth Award is awarded to an individual or team of Alaskan youth up to 19 years old who has displayed a dedication to promoting the understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s oceans. Mia Siebenmorgen Cresswell served as an intern for the Prince William Sound Regional Citizen’s Advisory Council’s marine invasive species monitoring program. Monitoring the nearshore coastal ecosystem in her hometown of Cordova, Mia set traps to monitor for European green crab and monitored settlement plates in the local harbor for benthic invasive species as part of the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center’s Plate Watch program. She has engaged in outreach by presenting her monitoring work at events including the Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment’s Science Lecture Series and the Prince William Sound Natural History Symposium. Mia also interned at the Prince William Sound Science Center and the Copper River Watershed Project, where she took on various multimedia and art projects, created small grant proposals, and served as a youth leader for a summer stewardship program. She has brought greater awareness to the issue of marine invasive species in Alaska and stewards the importance of marine science in Southcentral Alaska and beyond.  

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is saddened to share that Mist, a two-and-a-half-year-old Steller sea lion, unexpectedly passed away on January 23, 2023. The reason for her death is currently unclear. She appeared to experience seizure-like tremors and passed away within minutes of the episode. This is a heartbreaking loss for both the ASLC staff and the entire community.    The incident occurred January 23 while Mist and three other Steller sea lions were socializing in a new group setting. To mimic natural and social behaviors in the wild, Steller sea lion groupings change regularly at the ASLC, and staff always monitor animals in new situations closely. The introductions went well, and the animal care staff noted play and normal social behaviors throughout the morning.    Mist’s seizure-like tremors began suddenly and seemed unprompted. Due to the close monitoring protocol that day, an ASLC Mammalogist noticed the tremors as soon as they began and responded immediately. The other three Steller sea lions were shifted to another habitat so veterinary and animal care staff could tend to Mist safely. Though these staff arrived within minutes, Mist had unfortunately already become unresponsive.   A necropsy was performed the next day, but no immediate findings could explain the seizure-like tremors. Additional tissue samples were collected at the necropsy, and it could take several weeks for the samples to be processed and analyzed. Although ASLC staff are hoping for answers, the tests may never reveal the ultimate cause of her death.   Mist was born on June 26, 2020, to ASLC Steller sea lions Mara and Pilot. Mist was Mara’s first successful pup and the fifth successful Steller sea lion birth in the history of ASLC. Dr. Carrie Goertz, Director of Animal Health at the ASLC, recalls the special moments leading up to Mist’s birth in 2020, which  was featured on the second season of NatGeo WILD’s Alaska Animal Rescue.   “Waiting for Mist to be born is my most impactful memory of my time with her. It dominated my life in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. When she was born, it was such a joyous event in a crazy world and a crazy time,” said Goertz.    Many ASLC staff members watched Mist grow up, and she became an instant favorite for many guests visiting the ASLC.    “Mist was an animal who touched you immediately with her playful, clever, gregarious personality, and she was quickly a favorite for staff and guests alike. She was a bubbling force of energy and inquisitiveness with a nearly unrivaled level of potential, possessing a balance of intelligence, patience, and cleverness that was uniquely amazing to behold in one individual,” said Michelle Hanenburg, ASLC Mammal Curator.   Since the announcement of Mist’s passing, ASLC Staff members and Seward community members have offered moving tributes, memories, and condolences on a number of online platforms. ASLC Mammalogist Shelby Burman shared her own touching statement:   “I spend more time with these animals than my family, and losing one is unexplainable. I know every small child in the town of Seward will be saddened by this loss as well. To all the animal caregivers in this world, I see you and I feel you. This is the absolute worst part of this job."   The Alaska SeaLife Center is one of only three aquariums in North America that house Steller sea lions. Every Steller sea lion contributes to the understanding and knowledge base of their important species, making the loss of this two-and-a-half-year-old impactful for the entire population.    Update as of March 26, 2023: Unfortunately, a thorough necropsy did not lead to any concrete answers of what caused her seizure. A microscopic examination of Mist's tissues (known as a histopathology report) also did not reveal a cause. Not having a clear answer is incredibly hard for the ASLC staff. We will continue to explore possibilities with professional colleagues, but we may never know what caused her episode. We thank you all for your support over the past few weeks as we mourn the loss of an incredible animal.      About Steller Sea Lions Steller sea lions are the largest member of the eared seal family. The species ranges across the northern Pacific Ocean, from Japan through the Aleutian Islands and southeast Alaska to northern California. Divided into eastern and western regions, the western population is currently listed as endangered, while the eastern population was delisted in 2013 following notable recovery and significant conservation efforts.    

Extreme climate events are being experienced worldwide, and Alaska ecosystems, unfortunately, have a front-row seat. Heatwaves, droughts, floods, and hurricanes, are having profound environmental impacts, and are expected to continue for decades to come.One of these extreme climate events, called the Pacific marine heatwave, occurred between 2014 and 2016. During this time, water temperatures rose far above normal conditions and had expansive ecological impacts throughout the Gulf of Alaska and northeast Pacific Ocean. Luckily, the Chiswell Steller Sea Lion Remote Video Monitoring team (the ASLC Chiswell team) has been monitoring the Endangered population of Steller sea lions for nearly 25 years — long before the Pacific marine heatwave occurred. This western population of Steller sea lions was  listed as Endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 1997 following a major population decline. The ASLC Chiswell team has monitored this population since 1998 and has seen a general increase in the population over the years until 2016. The ASLC Chiswell team conducts multiple population surveys each year in the area around Resurrection Bay and monitors the Steller sea lion rookery called Chiswell Island through remote video cameras controlled at the Center.  The population data collected through the Pacific marine heatwave showed a continued increase in the population through 2015.  The peak impact of the heatwave occurred during the winter of 2015 and into 2016, and the Chiswell team began to see significant declines in pups and adults in the summer of 2016. Changes in food availability likely played some role in the decline. Dr. John Maniscalco, Ph. D. — a lead scientist at the ASLC — recently published a peer-reviewed article in Global Ecology and Conservation that looks at how the Pacific marine heatwave could have affected the winter diets of the Endangered population of Steller sea lions in Alaska over this time frame.  Winter is considered a critical time for Steller sea lions as it is likely the most energetically challenging time of the year. In addition to regulating their body temperatures in freezing Alaskan waters, adult female sea lions can be both lactating and pregnant with new pups, which they will birth in the coming summer. Limited food availability during the winter months could have dire outcomes for adult females, leading them to abort growing fetuses, wean their pups too early, or put their own survival at risk. Winter is also a high-risk season for scientists, as harsh and unpredictable weather at sea makes regular surveys logistically challenging, if not impossible. So how do scientists find out what sea lions are eating during this critical time period? The answer lies not in the sea lions, but in what they leave behind: scat samples.   Continue reading the full update on the ASLC blog: https://stories.alaskasealife.org/2023/05/01/changes-in-ssl-winter-diets/

History Concept The concept of the Alaska SeaLife Center began over 25 years ago, with the initial vision by Seward community leaders to enhance the existing University of Alaska's Seward Marine Center research facilities. Members of both the local and scientific communities identified a need and expressed their support for an expanded research and public education facility in Seward. The concept remained a dream for years with periodic efforts to lobby the University and the Alaska Legislature for funding. Exxon Valdez Oil Spill (EVOS) On March 24, 1989, the supertanker Exxon Valdez spilled 11 million gallons of oil into Prince William Sound, damaging nearly 1,500 miles of Alaska's pristine shoreline and causing widespread harm to the region's wildlife, economy, and ecosystems. Thousands of marine birds, mammals, and fish were destroyed in the days and weeks following the spill. The Exxon Valdez disaster drew dramatic attention to the need for improved facilities to treat injured wildlife, as well as to enhance Alaska's collective research infrastructure. In particular, the disaster brought to light the lack of reliable baseline information on the affected animals and their habitat before the spill. This greatly hindered the capability of scientists to understand the extent of damages and the recovery process. In light of the potential long-term effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill, scientists identified a need to establish the capability to conduct research and monitoring on a long-term basis. Formation of SAAMS In February 1990, responding to the needs brought to light by EVOS, a group of concerned citizens and researchers formed the Seward Association for the Advancement of Marine Science (SAAMS), a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation for "educational, social, and cultural purposes including marine research, public education, and providing education and scientific programs." The goal of SAAMS is to create a world-class marine research, wildlife rehabilitation, and public education institution adjacent to the existing University of Alaska Seward Marine Center on Resurrection Bay in Seward, Alaska. That goal advanced by the completion of the Alaska SeaLife Center in 1998. Capital Funding In 1993, the Alaska Legislature appropriated $12.5 million from the EVOS criminal settlement funds as a state grant to the City of Seward to develop the Alaska SeaLife Center as a "marine mammal rehabilitation center and as a center for education and research related to the natural resources injured by EVOS." The City of Seward entered into an agreement under which SAAMS agreed to assume all obligations and responsibilities of the City with respect to administering the State Grant. Following receipt of the first installment of the State Grant funds, SAAMS requested additional funding from the EVOS Trustee Council, the governing body for the EVOS Civil Settlement funds. In November 1994, the Trustee Council authorized $24.956 million to support the development of research facilities at the Center. The Trustee Council subsequently appropriated an additional $1.247 million for a fish pass and research equipment enhancements at the Center. In May 1996, the City of Seward issued $1.75 million in Revenue Bonds to finance $13 million of the cost of constructing the Alaska SeaLife Center. These bonds were retired in March 2001, utilizing a $14 million appropriation to the Center authorized by U.S. Senator Ted Stevens. Finally, a private fundraising campaign raised approximately $6 million for the start-up of the Center. Over $1 million of the campaign was raised within Seward, a town with 3,000 residents. Construction Ground breaking for the Center took place in May 1995. This was followed by Phase I construction which consisted of site preparations, utility relocations, sheet pile cofferdam and breakwater installation, and construction of the seawater intake and outfall reservoirs and lines. The Phase I contract was completed on time in December 1995. Phase II construction commenced in June 1996, and consisted of the main building, life support systems, laboratories, animal habitats, exhibits, and landscaping. Grand Opening occurred on May 2, 1998. Business Model With a mission of bringing visitors in close contact with cutting-edge marine research, the Center’s design includes a public aquarium with exhibit tanks for displaying research animals as well as other North Pacific mammals, birds, fish, and invertebrates. The facility also features a full veterinary suite with quarantine pools for orphaned, diseased, or injured wild animals brought to the Center for rehabilitation, and for resident animals that need medical treatment. Looking to the Future The Alaska SeaLife Center will continue its focus on marine research. As our world, and more specifically the North Pacific, faces dramatic changes caused by environmental factors and human components, the Alaska SeaLife Center will continue to be instrumental in understanding and developing ways to maintain marine ecosystems.

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a female northern sea otter pup to the Wildlife Response Program on September 4, 2023. This pup joins an extensive roster of 2023 patients cared for by the ASLC, including ten harbor seals, a fur seal, a walrus calf, and more.    The otter pup was found stranded on a road in Kenai, Alaska, over 5 miles up the Kenai River from the ocean. The original spotter believed the otter was a cat, but called the police when they discovered it was a young otter. Officials worked with the ASLC as the pup was moved away from the dangerous road, which was about half a mile away from the river.   The female pup was estimated to be around three months old, and her mother was not found in the vicinity. ASLC staff knew she needed help and received permission from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to bring her back to the ASLC for rehabilitation.  The main concerns found by the ASLC veterinary team upon the initial admit exam were dehydration and malnourishment. The pup’s blood glucose levels were low, and her feces indicated she had been stressed and had not eaten in a while. The team is currently providing stabilizing treatments and examining the patient further to understand the severity of her condition. Northern sea otter mothers invest a lot of maternal care into their pups and will not leave their pups unaccompanied except to dive for food. Mothers provide almost constant care until the pup weans between three to six months of age. When a sea otter pup is admitted as a patient to the ASLC Wildlife Response Program, it requires 24/7 care from our team.    “Young otter pups like this one need constant care and attention. At this age, they are transitioning from their pup coat to their adult coat and also being weaned. They need assistance grooming and monitoring their nutrition during this critical time. That is why sea otter pups require 24/7 care from ASLC staff until they are about six months of age,” said Wildlife Response Curator Jane Belovarac.  Follow the ASLC on Facebook and Instagram for more updates on this year’s rescue patients as the team works to nurse them back to health.  From September 10-16, 2023, ASLC will hold “Roundup for Wildlife Response,” an online fundraiser for the ASLC Wildlife Response Department. The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only institution in Alaska authorized to rehabilitate marine mammals. Followers can tune in for a special week filled with never-before-seen wildlife response stories on the ASLC social media pages from September 10-16, 2023. Every donation of $25 or more to the ASLC Wildlife Response Program during the “Roundup for Wildlife Response week will receive a limited edition Wildlife Response sticker in testament of their support.           

In an unusually dramatic wildlife response case, the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has admitted a newborn female northern sea otter pup from Homer, AK. The pup was orphaned following an orca attack incidentally witnessed by ASLC laboratory technician and wildlife response team member Natalie Hunter. While calls to the ASLC’s Wildlife Response Program concerning lost or abandoned sea otter pups are not uncommon, the background of these patients — including how the pup ended up alone — is often a matter of speculation, making this case particularly unique.   The nerve-wracking incident occurred September 9, 2023, while Hunter and friends were on a recreational fishing trip in Homer, AK. They were excited to spot two wild orcas, and the boat captain shut the motor off to observe from a distance. The group on the boat did not know this was a pod of transient orcas known to predate on mammals, so Hunter and friends did not immediately connect that an otter floating nearby could be a target. It wasn't until a commotion under the otter happened that they realized what they were witnessing. The otter did not attempt to dive away from the whales, and the group realized the otter was carrying a pup when they heard the characteristic young otter calls. Multiple attacks from the orcas ensued. They saw both the mother otter and pup burst out of the water after an impressive tail slap from one of the orcas. Mom and pup were separated, and the orcas focused their attention on the mother. Eventually, the mother otter did not resurface, and the orca began leaving the area. Persistent cries from the water indicated that the pup had survived the attack. After waiting to ensure the orcas were not returning for the pup and the mother did not resurface, the group called the ASLC Wildlife Response Hotline (1-888-774-7325) to report the incident and wait for further instruction.   Natalie Hunter, ASLC Lab Technician, frequently works on the ASLC wildlife response team and is usually one of the people taking the calls on the hotline. “It was weird to be on the other side of the wildlife response hotline. It wasn’t someone calling me to report an animal in need. It was the other way around,” said Hunter. “My brain was in wildlife response mode during the entire incident, thinking we, unfortunately, may have an otter pup rescue on our hands. It wasn’t until the entire event ended, the wild orcas had left the area, and the pup started crying out for its mother that I knew we had to think about the next move.” To make the situation even more extraordinary, Hunter was on board with friends who have wildlife response experience. Ally Kintner was formerly a USFWS volunteer stranding coordinator in Homer.  Another friend, Adriana Ferello, was also a former USFWS volunteer stranding coordinator, former ASLC intern, and current veterinary technician at the Georgia Aquarium. From the group’s extensive experience rescuing sea otter pups, they knew this pup did not have much time left and knew how to act accordingly. Once the ASLC got permission from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to respond to the pup, the group carefully got the newborn otter out of the water and onto the boat.  “Her cries were gurgly, and when we got her out of the water, she was soaked,” Hunter recollects. “Her coat wasn’t repelling water and keeping her buoyant like it should have been.” Despite the pup’s trying circumstances, she was now in experienced and caring hands. The group made their way back to the shore, attending carefully to the young otter for the duration of the boat trip. They met the ASLC Wildlife Response team halfway between Seward and Homer, about a two-hour drive, and the ASLC team immediately transported the pup back to the Center. Staff conducted an admit exam and found that the pup was fatigued and hungry, but otherwise seemed to be in good health. A fresh umbilical cord confirmed the patient was only a day — possibly even hours old.  “Very rarely do we know how a wildlife response patient got to the location and the condition it was found in. For most reported cases of an abandoned seal or otter pup, we have the reporter watch for a length of time to see if the mother returns. In this rare case, we know exactly what happened to this newborn pup,” said Jane Belovarac, ASLC Wildlife Response Curator.  This is the second orphaned otter pup admitted to the ASLC in less than a week. Because northern sea otter pups receive constant care and attention from their mothers until around six months of age, both patients are under 24/7 care from our team during this sensitive time.  The ASLC will continue to post updates on current wildlife response patients on the ASLC social media pages.      The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can only provide care for stranded and injured marine animals with help from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of rehabilitating marine animals here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from supporters like ConocoPhillips 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, and the NC Giving Fund.    

Seward, Alaska (March 25, 2024) – The Alaska SeaLife Center Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Dr. Wei Ying Wong has accepted the role of President and CEO. Dr. Wong is an experienced executive with a passion for marine science. She is a visionary leader who brings an array of skills and experience, from her deep roots in interdisciplinary and multicultural conservation and education to her extraordinary leadership in advancing equity in zoo and aquarium communities nationally and abroad. Dr. Wong will become President and CEO on March 31.   “I am thrilled that Dr. Wong will be leading the Alaska SeaLife Center,” said ASLC Board Chair Josie Hickel. “Dr. Wong will continue to be a champion of science and research as part of ASLC’s renewed emphasis on delivering its mission in the face of impacts to Alaska’s marine ecosystems from climate change and other environmental factors.” Dr. Wong was chosen after an extensive search that attracted a diverse field of highly qualified candidates. In making its selection, the Board cited Dr. Wong’s passion for ASLC’s mission, her strong organizational leadership experience fostering a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture, and her depth of experience cultivating strategic partnerships that amplify mission impact. “Leading the Center in fulfilling its mission is dear to my heart,” said Dr. Wong. “I was originally attracted to the ASLC because of its reputation for groundbreaking research and the potential in the mission. Over time, my commitment to the organization has deepened as I grew to know the staff and community. The ASLC has the capacity to serve as a formidable science enterprise at the scale it promised at its founding. I truly believe we can become a new driving force for positive global change.” Dr. Wong joined ASLC and the community of Seward in December 2021 when she stepped into her role as ASLC’s Chief Science and Education Officer (CSEO). As CSEO, Dr. Wong reenergized and expanded the science and education programs, working closely with the CEO, Board, and staff to develop and implement a visionary science agenda. Dr. Wong’s efforts to amplify scientific and organizational impact through collaborative grants and fundraising, including successfully launching the Community Organized Restoration and Learning (CORaL) Network, has yielded substantial benefits for ASLC and the community.  Dr. Wong’s experience includes serving in executive roles at the Washington Sea Grant, Woodland Park Zoo, and the Philadelphia Zoo. As an industry leader, Dr. Wong has a strong record of talks, publications, and service. She has received numerous awards and fellowships and is a 2019 graduate of the Association of Zoos and Aquarium Executive Leadership Development Program. “The Board is grateful for the leadership of Dr. Tara Riemer who has served the Center for 20 years, the last 12 years as President and CEO,” Hickel said. “Under her leadership, the Center has grown and developed into a world-class organization providing education, research, and programs that have improved our knowledge of Alaska’s unique marine environment. We are confident that Dr. Wong is the right leader to continue growing ASLC’s leadership in stewarding Alaska’s marine health.” 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 Wildlife Response Program has admitted two premature harbor seal pups from Kenai, Alaska. Despite incredible efforts, one pup has passed away and the other is in serious condition.   The ASLC is currently caring for a premature female harbor seal pup admitted on May 9, 2024, found abandoned and malnourished in Kenai, Alaska. The pup is still covered in its white lanugo coat, indicating a premature birth.  This is the Alaska SeaLife Center Wildlife Response Program’s second premature harbor seal patient admitted this season, as another premature pup was admitted on April 24, 2024, from Nikiski, Alaska. Despite the ASLC team’s incredible effort, the first premature harbor seal patient became critical and passed away within 48 hours of being admitted. A necropsy revealed that the pup was likely born weeks prematurely and his organs weren’t developed enough to allow him to thrive. The current patient, admitted on May 9, 2024, is in serious condition. Community members working at a fish processing facility in Kenai called the ASLC 24-hour Wildlife Response Hotline to report that a small white-furred pup had been on their property for several hours without seeing an adult nearby. Community members who first spotted her in Kenai, Alaska reported a malnourished and abandoned harbor seal pup to the ASLC 24-hour Wildlife Response Hotline. NOAA officers responded and confirmed that there was no mother in sight. They knew that the pup was prematurely born, as indicated by her white lanugo coat, and that she likely wouldn’t survive without immediate intervention. After receiving approval from NOAA, the pup was transported to the Alaska SeaLife Center for treatment by the officers. The main concerns found by the veterinary team upon her initial admit exam were malnourishment, low body temperature, and abnormal bloodwork results indicating this seal was premature. The team is currently providing initial stabilizing treatments and examining the patient further to understand the severity of the animal’s condition. Premature harbor seal pups have only about a 50% chance of survival when admitted to a wildlife response program, and the team is doing everything possible to give her a fighting chance.  Harbor seal pups typically shed their white lanugo coat in utero before being born, so any time a pup of this species is seen with a white coat, it indicates that it was born prematurely. However, this isn’t true for all species of seals in Alaska. Ice seal pups, like spotted and ringed seals, are born with white lanugo coats and do not shed them for four to six weeks after birth. Location helps experts know which species of seal pup they are looking at in Alaska. Typically, the ice seal species normally born with a white lanugo coat are found in the northern half of Alaska’s coastline. Harbor seals are typically found along the southern half of Alaska’s coastline.   The ASLC will share updates on this delicate patient’s progress on their Facebook and Instagram pages.    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’s Wildlife Response Program can only provide care for stranded and injured marine animals with help from corporate sponsors and individual donors. If you are interested in contributing to the care of these patients, visit the ASLC’s website: 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 Stanley J Williams Fund.                     

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is caring for a female Pacific walrus calf that arrived from Utqiagvik on July 22, 2024. Walruses are rare patients for the Wildlife Response Department, with only eleven total and just one other female since the ASLC opened in 1998. This patient follows another walrus admitted just last year, which gained national attention but sadly passed away due to irreversible health issues. The ASLC’s newest patient was first observed alone on the beaches of Utqiagvik. Reports from subsistence hunters noted that a walrus herd had recently left the area, suggesting the calf had been left on its own. After receiving approval from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), ASLC staff mobilized to assist in transport and prepared to receive the patient. Transporting the calf from Utqiagvik, Alaska’s northernmost city, was no simple task. Luckily, ASLC partners were able to provide overnight care and fluids, ensuring the calf remained stable on its 24-hour journey. The transport team arrived in Anchorage the night of July 22, and the nearly 165-pound calf — estimated to be only a couple of weeks old or less — was brought under the care of the ASLC’s experienced Wildlife Response and Veterinary teams. The atmosphere was charged with determination and cautious optimism as the team conducted their initial admit exam. They noted that the calf was malnourished and dehydrated, but alert. As the team wrapped up administering emergency fluids and stabilizing treatments around 1 a.m. on July 23,  they prepared for the demanding days ahead. “We want to give [the calf] time to rest, but that doesn’t mean there is any time for the staff to rest. We will have at least two people on every shift either staying with the walrus calf or prepping food, cleaning the environment, and taking care of our other rehab patients. There will be lots of weird sleeping hours ahead, but that's ok. We do it for the animals. We want to give back and set them up for success. This is all part of the job we love,” said ASLC Veterinary Technician Jessica Davis. The care regimen for Pacific walruses is more demanding and hands-on than for many other marine mammals. Because calves are highly social and seek comfort through physical contact with their mothers, staff act as surrogates, sitting with them around the clock. This also means that the calf will habituate to human care, and will not be a candidate for release back into the wild.  "Walruses are so reliant on their moms for the first two years of life, they're likely not going to survive without her. This calf would not have survived much longer without her mom. She now has a second chance at life in human care, and she'll help bring awareness to her species while receiving incredible care,” explained Wildlife Response Animal Care Specialist Halley Werner. Though the walrus calf cannot currently be viewed publicly, she may be relocated to an area with limited public viewing as her condition improves. Upon such a development, additional announcements will be shared. Until then, regular updates can be found on the ASLC’s Facebook and Instagram pages.    The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can only provide care for stranded and injured marine animals with help from corporate sponsors and individual donors. 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, Mesara Family Foundation, and the NC Giving Fund.  Those interested in contributing to the care of these patients can visit 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 rare rescued Pacific walrus calf admitted to the ASLC wildlife response program in July of 2024 has foudn her longterm home and is now under the expert care of SeaWorld Orlando’s renowned animal care specialists. The calf, which was found orphaned and abandoned on the beaches of Utqiagvik, Alaska, has been named Ukiaq, which translates to “autumn” in the language of the Iñupiaq people who live in the area of northern Alaska where she was first found. Ukiaq – or Uki (pronounced “oo-kee”) as she is affectionately being called – brings the Alaskan spirit with her to Orlando, honoring the rich culture and traditions of the Alaskan Native peoples. After receiving life-saving rehabilitative care from the ASLC and being deemed non-releasable by the United States Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), Uki arrived at her long-term home SeaWorld Orlando on September 18, weighing approximately 220 pounds and ready to continue her care. SeaWorld Orlando was chosen as Uki’s new home because of the staff’s experience with walrus care, and the overall walrus herd at SeaWorld Orlando allows for the best nurturing environment for her overall care and development, including a female walrus that is capable of acting as a surrogate to Uki. The specialized care Uki is receiving at SeaWorld is part of the park’s long-standing commitment to wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. SeaWorld’s animal care specialists are working closely with veterinarians to ensure Uki’s needs continue to be met, including a carefully crafted feeding plan and ongoing medical evaluations. While Uki’s arrival is a heartwarming milestone, she will not be introduced to SeaWorld Orlando’s guest-facing habitats immediately. The young walrus will spend time acclimating to her new surroundings and receiving the round-the-clock care necessary to support her growth and well-being. “Uki’s journey to SeaWorld Orlando is only the beginning of her new chapter. Our team is providing dedicated, 24/7 care to ensure her transition is as smooth as possible,” said Dr. Joseph Gaspard, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld Orlando. “We want to give her time to settle into her new home, and once she’s ready, guests will have the unique opportunity to meet this extraordinary calf and learn more about our conservation efforts in the Arctic region.” Ukiwas first discovered by Utqiagvik community members in July 2024, after a walrus herd had left the area. Alone and vulnerable, the young calf, estimated to be only a few weeks old, was transported to the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) in a rescue operation in coordination with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). She received immediate medical care for dehydration and malnourishment from the Alaska SeaLife Center’s expert team, and additional professionals familiar with walrus care, including SeaWorld, mobilized to provide additional support for her round-the-clock care. “We are proud to have been able to quickly respond to the call for help, getting a zoological team with expertise in walrus care to the Alaska SeaLife Center within 24 hours of the calf’s rescue,” said Dr. Claire Erlacher-Reid, Senior Veterinarian at SeaWorld Orlando. “Uki’s story of survival is a testament to the importance of partnerships and rapid response in wildlife rescue, and we are committed to providing her with the highest level of care as she continues her journey here at SeaWorld Orlando.” "We are thrilled by the progress this walrus calf has made since her admission to the Alaska SeaLife Center Wildlife Response Program. As just the eleventh orphaned Pacific walrus calf to come through our doors since our opening 25 years ago, we recognize how incredibly special she is. Success stories like Ukiaq is what inspires us, the only organization authorized to rehabilitate live-stranded marine mammals in the state of Alaska," said Dr. Wei Ying Wong, ASLC President and CEO. Uki’s story of survival continues to highlight the importance of global collaboration in marine mammal rescue. “From the Utqiagvik community members who first found her, to the tireless efforts of the ASLC team, and now to our family here at SeaWorld Orlando, Uki has been surrounded by people committed to giving her a second chance,” said Dr. Gaspard. As she grows stronger in her new home, Uki will play an essential role as an ambassador for her species, educating the public on the challenges Pacific walruses face in the wild. Her story, like many other animals rescued by SeaWorld Orlando, emphasizes the park’s ongoing mission to inspire action toward the protection and preservation of marine life. 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, Mesara Family Foundation, and the NC Giving Fund. Those interested in contributing to the care of these patients can visit 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 1-907-362-2232  

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has admitted its first live patient of the 2025 wildlife response season: a female northern sea otter pup rescued from a beach in Homer, Alaska. Estimated to be around two months old, the pup was found alone, lethargic, and malnourished. The report came through ASLC’s 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline, prompting a swift response from ASLC wildlife response volunteers Mike Coffing and Sarah Wilhelm. After assessing the pup and confirming her critical condition, the team relayed their findings to ASLC staff in Seward, who immediately contacted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to authorize her transport for urgent veterinary care.  Before the journey to Seward, the pup received initial triage and stabilizing care at Kachemak Bay Animal Hospital, thanks to the support of Dr. Zach Gardenfors, ASLC Wildlife Response Staff Member Christie Hill, and the hospital team. Their rapid response helped prepare her for the next phase of treatment. With time of the essence, volunteer Mike helped get the pup to the ASLC faster by meeting the transport team en route. “It was a super quick response by our Homer team that gave this little girl a chance,” said ASLC Husbandry Coordinator Deanna Trobaugh, who fielded the original call and helped coordinate the rescue. “It’s always a race against the clock with animals this young,” Trobaugh added. “Our team in Homer responded with urgency and compassion. Everything came together quickly to get her to the ASLC, where she could get the help she needed.” Upon arrival at the Alaska SeaLife Center, the veterinary team found the pup suffering from dehydration, malnourishment, and a suspected injury to one of her front paws. She is currently receiving 24/7 care, stabilizing treatments, and additional diagnostics to better understand the severity of her condition. "Sea otter pups like this one need round-the-clock care in their earliest months of life," said Jane Belovarac, Wildlife Response Curator at ASLC. “They rely on their mothers for everything from grooming to nutrition, and when a pup is orphaned, it’s up to our team to step in. We’re doing everything we can to give this pup the best possible start.” Those interested can follow the pup’s progress with behind-the-scenes rehab stories from the ASLC’s  Instagram and Facebook pages: @AlaskaSeaLifeCenter. As the 2025 rescue season begins, the ASLC Wildlife Response Program stands ready to care for Alaska’s most vulnerable marine animals. You can help make these rescues possible by supporting the team’s work and reporting marine animals in need from across the state. Remember, before approaching an injured or stranded marine animal, call the 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-7325. Our staff and volunteers make handling wild animals in need look easy, but it can be extremely dangerous without proper training. The best thing you can do is call first!  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, Mesara Family Foundation, The Theresa Bannister Fund, and the NC Giving Fund.   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 Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a premature harbor seal pup to the Wildlife Response Program on May 8, 2025.   The male harbor seal was found on a remote beach in Kenai, Alaska, and it was evident that no mother was in the area. The pup was prematurely born, as indicated by his white lanugo coat, and the ASLC team knew he likely wouldn’t survive without immediate intervention. After receiving approval from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), ASLC volunteers recovered the pup, and the animal was transported to the ASLC.   During this initial admit exam, staff found the pup was likely born that day and should not have been alone so soon after birth. The team is currently providing initial stabilizing treatments and examining the patient further to understand the severity of the animal’s condition. Premature harbor seal pups have only about a 50% chance of survival when admitted to a wildlife response program, and the team is providing intensive care to give this pup the best possible chance. In April 2025, the ASLC admitted another harbor seal pup born prematurely, which did not survive due to complications from underdeveloped organs that could not support life.   Harbor seal pups typically shed their white lanugo coat in utero before being born, so any time a pup of this species is seen with sections of fluffy white coat, it indicates that it was born prematurely. This visual clue helps responders quickly assess a harbor seal pup’s age, but it’s important to note that not all white-coated seal pups are premature.   Ice seal pups, like spotted and ringed seals, are born with white lanugo coats and do not shed them for four to six weeks after birth. Location helps experts know which species of seal pup they are looking at in Alaska. Typically, the ice seal species born with a white lanugo coat are found in the northern half of Alaska’s coastline, while harbor seals are found along the southern half of Alaska’s coastline.   Pupping season for harbor seals has begun, and the ASLC Wildlife Response team remains ready to help any marine animal in need in Alaska. This is typically the busiest time of year for the team as they prepare for an influx of calls about abandoned or injured pups in need of help.  The Alaska SeaLife Center responds to reports of stranded and injured marine mammals across the state. If you encounter a marine animal in distress, call the 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL (7325). We encourage all Alaskans and visitors to save this number in their phone contacts—and remember, always call first before approaching any stranded or injured wildlife.   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 Stanley J Williams Fund, Mesara Family Foundation, and the NC Giving Fund.    

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has admitted three more harbor seal pups to the Wildlife Response Program in the past seven days, marking a busy start to the 2025 season. One of the pups was born prematurely, one was found severely malnourished, and another was rescued after it was found alone, likely due to maternal separation. These cases follow the recent admissions of another premature harbor seal pup and an orphaned northern sea otter pup, all requiring intensive rehabilitation and veterinary care.  On May 26, 2025, a premature male pup was found alone on a beach near Petersburg, Alaska. The next day, it was still there alone, prompting National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) staff in the area to call the ASLC hotline. After receiving authorization, the pup was recovered and quickly prepared for a flight leaving Petersburg, Alaska that morning.  The seal was transported to the Alaska SeaLife Center, where he remains in critical condition as veterinary teams work to stabilize his fragile health. Similar to challenges a premature human baby may face, the pup’s yellow-tinted gums and bloodwork indicated that his liver isn’t functioning as it should, and his condition remains critical as he fights each day to survive. Just four days later, on May 31, 2025, and from over 700 miles away, a female harbor seal pup was found very emaciated on a beach in Homer, Alaska. She was very skinny, dehydrated, and had a fresh umbilicus, which indicates she was newly born. Once recovery was authorized by NOAA, ASLC Homer volunteers were able to recover and start her transportation to the ASLC for critical veterinary care. This pup’s bloodwork also pointed to liver dysfunction, but the primary concern for the animal care team is her severely malnourished and dehydrated state. She also remains in critical condition. As staff continued providing intensive care for the three harbor seal pups already admitted, they braced for another admit on June 3, 2025. A female harbor seal pup was spotted alone in an unusual location in Anchorage, Alaska. ASLC staff observed the pup for several hours and a tidal cycle through reports provided by the public via the ASLC marine mammal stranding hotline. When no mother returned and the pup remained vulnerable in a heavily trafficked area, NOAA authorized rapid intervention, and the pup was transferred to the ASLC for treatment and rehabilitation.  How can you help harbor seals like these three pups? One of the most significant threats to harbor seal pups during pupping season is human disturbance. If a pup is approached by a human or dog, the mother may abandon it. Once abandoned, a pup’s chances of survival drop dramatically, especially during the critical window when the pup relies entirely on her milk for nutrition, immune support, and survival.  It is essential to give seals space and share coastal areas responsibly. Do not approach, touch, or attempt to move a seal pup. Keep children and pets at a safe distance from haul-out sites and known pupping areas. Approaching or disturbing a marine mammal can cause serious harm to the animal, put people at risk, and may result in violations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Responsible viewing ensures that these young animals have the best chance to grow and survive in the wild. If you do see a seal pup in distress, the Alaska SeaLife Center remains ready to respond to reports of stranded and injured marine mammals statewide. Call the 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL (7325). We encourage all Alaskans and visitors to save this number in their phone contacts—and remember, always call first before approaching any stranded or injured wildlife.           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 Stanley J Williams Fund, Mesara Family Foundation, and the NC Giving Fund.    

A statewide rescue effort led by the Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program brings in five more harbor seal pups from across Alaska The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has admitted five more harbor seal pups to the Wildlife Response Program in the span of twelve days from across the state of Alaska. Of the new patients, two pups remain in poor health, two are in critical condition, and one sadly succumbed to an infection despite intensive care efforts. These cases follow the recent admissions of an orphaned northern sea otter pup and four previously admitted harbor seal patients, all of whom required intensive rehabilitation and veterinary care.    On June 6, a female harbor seal pup was found alone on a beach near Nikiski, Alaska. Photos sent to the ASLC Wildlife Stranding Hotline confirmed that the pup was malnourished and dehydrated, likely from maternal separation. After receiving National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) approval, the female pup was transported by ASLC volunteers in Kenai all the way to Seward for care. Now identified as patient PV2507, the pup is under the care of ASLC’s veterinary and wildlife response teams. While she remains in a guarded state, she has been stable for the past few days and continues to show slow signs of improvement. On June 10, a male harbor seal pup was admitted from the remote community of Pilot Point, Alaska.  Following a two-flight journey to Anchorage, the pup arrived in increasingly fragile condition. In a critical window where every minute mattered, the owner of Kenai Aviation graciously volunteered to fly the pup directly to Seward on a third and final flight, ensuring he could receive immediate veterinary care. Bloodwork confirmed the pup was battling a severe internal infection, and when his fever spiked above 105 degrees Fahrenheit the morning after his admit, the ASLC veterinary and wildlife response teams moved into critical care mode. Despite hours of intensive treatment, the pup unfortunately succumbed to his condition. The Alaska SeaLife Center extends its sincere gratitude to the Kenai Aviation pilot whose rapid response gave this vulnerable pup the best possible chance. Their support was vital in delivering urgent care when it mattered most, and it didn’t stop there.  The very next morning, on June 11, the Kenai Aviation team once again stepped in to help, transporting another harbor seal pup from Anchorage to Seward. This patient had traveled all the way from Sitka, Alaska, highlighting the statewide reach and rapid coordination of the ASLC Wildlife Response Program. Now identified as PV2509, the female harbor seal pup was found extremely malnourished and dehydrated. She remains in critical condition under close observation and intensive care.  The stream of patients being admitted wasn’t over yet. While the team worked to stabilize patient PV2509, the ASLC was monitoring a pup in a popular fishing area in Homer. At the beginning, an adult seal was observed briefly returning to the pup, but as the pup remained in a high-traffic area, more interactions between the pup and people were documented. Her condition deteriorated, and concerns grew. With no further sign of the mother and the pup’s health declining, authorization was granted. She was transported to the ASLC late on the night of June 12. She is now known as patient PV2511.  A few days later, on June 17, a seal pup near Egegik was reported alone. Photos sent showed a pup in lanugo with an umbilicus, indicating this was a premature seal. The next day, he was still in the area and there had been reports of people interacting with him.  Due to his condition and location, this animal was also authorized for recovery and rehabilitation. Thanks to the generous help of Coastal Air LLC, he was flown to King Salmon on short notice so he could make his flight to Anchorage. Harbor seal PV2512 is currently under critical care due to his delicate condition. Unfortunately, these most recent patient admits highlight the serious impacts human presence can have on harbor seal pups during pupping season. One of the most significant threats to these pups is disturbance from people and pets. If a mother seal is interrupted or feels unsafe, especially in high-traffic areas, she may abandon her pup. Once abandoned, a pup’s chances of survival drop sharply, particularly during the early days when it relies entirely on its mother’s milk for nutrition, immune support, and growth. It is critical to give seals space and share coastal areas responsibly. Never approach, touch, or attempt to move a seal pup. Keep children and pets well away from haul-out sites and known pupping areas. Approaching or disturbing a marine mammal can cause lasting harm, pose safety risks to people, and may violate the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Responsible viewing helps ensure that young animals have the best possible chance to grow and survive in the wild. If you do see a seal pup in distress, the Alaska SeaLife Center remains ready to respond to reports of stranded and injured marine mammals statewide. Call the 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL (7325). We encourage all Alaskans and visitors to save this number in their phone contacts—and remember, always call first before approaching any stranded or injured wildlife.             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 Stanley J Williams Fund, Mesara Family Foundation, M.E. Webber Foundation, and the NC Giving Fund.        

Orphaned Otter Pup and Two Seal Pups Join Growing Patient List at Alaska’s Only Permanent Marine Mammal Rehab Facility The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has admitted three new patients in just four days, including an orphaned male sea otter pup from Homer on June 23. In addition, two orphaned harbor seal pups were admitted — a harbor seal pup from Nikiski on June 20, followed by another harbor seal pup from Juneau on June 23. The pup from Nikiski is currently receiving veterinary treatment, and the pup from Juneau, the smallest and most underweight patient admitted so far this season, did not make it despite intensive care efforts. Including the most recent admits, there are now 12 animals in rehabilitative care at the ASLC, with many still in critical condition and receiving life-saving veterinary care.  “We’ve had busy seasons before, but this is a notable number of admits early on in the season,” said Jane Belovarac, ASLC Wildlife Response Curator and Licensed Veterinary Technician. “With harbor seal pupping season continuing through mid-July, we’re staying prepared. We don’t yet know what the coming weeks will bring.” As Alaska’s only permanent marine mammal rehabilitation facility, the ASLC plays a vital role in responding to orphaned and injured marine animals from across the state’s vast and remote coastlines. Every case requires coordination, expertise, and long-term commitment from the ASLC’s small but dedicated team. One of the most recent examples of that commitment came just days ago, when a young sea otter pup was found stranded near Homer, Alaska. A community member spotted the pup alone on a beach in Homer and called ASLC’s 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline. The pup was found unusually far from the water during low tide, and his mother was nowhere in sight. After hours alone, birds began to approach the vulnerable pup, and the team knew they needed to act. With authorization from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the ASLC Wildlife Response Team coordinated the pup’s safe transport to Seward for immediate care. In their earliest weeks of life, sea otter pups are entirely dependent on their mothers for survival. Mothers provide near-constant care, including feeding, grooming, and maintaining the pup’s coat to ensure it stays clean and waterproof, which is critical for staying warm and buoyant. When a pup is orphaned, these responsibilities fall to the ASLC’s Wildlife Response Team, which is currently providing round-the-clock care to give the recently admitted pup the strongest chance at survival. “We believe this pup is about two weeks old, and is now under 24/7 care and showing encouraging signs,” said Jane Belovarac, Wildlife Response Curator at ASLC. “He’s alert, taking the bottle well, and has already started practicing holding his breath while in the water, which is a great early milestone. His temperature and glucose levels are stable.  As his body adjusts to drinking formula, we are watching him closely for signs of constipation, which is always a challenge for pups transitioning to new food.” This pup joins another female sea otter pup rescued from Homer earlier this month, who continues to make steady progress. The female pup has now been given the name Un’a, which means “that out in the open water” in the language of the Alutiiq/Sugpiaq people. It’s a fitting name, they say, for a special pup who has shown strong resilience in her recovery.    Un’a remains under close observation for a front limb injury that is slow to heal. While obvious on radiographs, it does not appear to bother her, and she is using the limb normally. Her energy levels are improving, and she frequently engages with enrichment toys, dives deep in her pool, and eats solid foods — all positive signs that she’s meeting milestones in her development. For updates on all 12 of the patients currently admitted, follow the Alaska SeaLife Center on Instagram and Facebook at @AlaskaSeaLifeCenter. Our team is busy providing top-notch care to patients, but we’ll share updates as often as we can.  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 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, Mesara Family Foundation, M. E. Webber Foundation, The Theresa Bannister Fund, and the NC Giving Fund.       

Dr. John Fraser Receives Prestigious Devra Kleiman Scientific Advancement Award from AZA   The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is pleased to announce that the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has honored John Fraser, Ph.D., AIA, ASLC Director of Mission Impact, with the Devra Kleiman Scientific Advancement Award, one of its highest recognitions. Established in 2014, the award celebrates scientific contributions that advance animal management, education, and conservation. Named for pioneering zoologist Dr. Devra Kleiman, it is presented only when a candidate’s impact reflects her legacy. This marks the first time a social scientist has been recognized with the award. Over nearly four decades, Fraser’s work has transformed how zoos and aquariums understand their impact on people, showing that conservation success depends as much on human behavior as on ecosystems. Fraser’s career began as an architect designing exhibits for the Toronto Zoo in the 1980s. Encouraged by mentors including Drs. Jill Mellen, Kathy Carlstead, and David Shepherdson, he was welcomed by Kleiman into the groundbreaking Methods of Behavioral Assessment project, one of the first multi-institutional behavioral research efforts. That collaboration sparked a lifelong focus on the human side of conservation. In 2000, Drs. Carol Saunders, Stephen Kellert, and Fraser launched the idea of conservation psychology, a social-science partner to conservation biology. Since then, Fraser has led landmark projects showing how zoos and aquariums influence environmental identity, hope, and action. His leadership of Phases II and III of the Why Zoos and Aquariums Matter studies provided critical data on the social and educational impact of AZA institutions. He later co-authored The Social Value of Zoos with Tawnya Switzer, published by Cambridge University Press.   Fraser has published nearly 100 peer-reviewed articles, more than 20 books and chapters, and served as editor of Curator: The Museum Journal from 2015–2022. Within AZA, he was a founding member of the Research and Technology Committee, co-author of the AZA’s Research Priorities, and a key driver behind the Social Science Research and Evaluation Scientific Advisory Group. He developed shared research tools that fostered collaboration and elevated social science in the field. “Devra welcomed me into my first major research project, and her belief in rigorous science as a tool for conservation has guided me ever since,” Fraser said. “I’ve tried throughout my career to carry that same commitment forward.” The Alaska SeaLife Center is proud to celebrate Dr. John ‘Johnny’ Fraser’s achievement and the recognition of his groundbreaking contributions to conservation science. About AZA Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. AZA is the accrediting body for the top zoos and aquariums in the United States and abroad.        

Volunteer Those who can, do. Those dedicated and enthusiastic individuals who can do more, volunteer! Join the Alaska SeaLife Center family as a volunteer. As a non-profit organization, the Alaska SeaLife Center relies on our active volunteer staff to fulfill our mission year-round.   Please feel free to contact our volunteer coordinator at volunteercoordinator@alaskasealife.org with any questions about our volunteer program. Application Information: Please submit a resume if available to complement your application An interview and the mandatory orientation/training session are required Learn about becoming an RV Volunteer for the summer  Benefits include: Gain valuable, hands-on experience Discounts on Gift Shop merchandise - 20% discount on non-sale items Discounts at Haul Out Cafe Guests accompanying volunteers will receive a 20% discount on gate admission and programs Free or discounted admission to some state/local attractions, hotels, and restaurants (with ASLC ID) Free admission to ASLC for volunteers, their spouse, children, parents, grandparents, and grandchildren Worker's compensation benefits Program Requirements: Complete and submit a volunteer application and attend mandatory training Must be at least 14 yrs of age, 16 to work in the Husbandry or Laboratory Departments or apply with HR for the Parent-Partner Interpreter Program (at least 9 yrs of age) Most positions require a commitment of at least 4 hours a week for at least 4 months or equivalent No experience necessary Dress appropriately Bring your enthusiasm Must be able to commit to a consistent schedule and be on time for scheduled shifts Must have effective communication skills, both oral and written, be detail oriented and willing to work Must be able to work independently as well as part of a team Comply with policies and procedures Must be comfortable with the use of animals for research purposes Some positions require: Ability to handle confidential information Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas Must be able to lift 50 pounds Applicants must possess the ability to adapt to an ever-changing work environment Must be able to perform physically challenging work in a variety of weather conditions, including snow, ice, and rain Must be familiar with operation of computers and software including Word, Excel, and Access Applicants must possess the ability to interact with visitors in a professional manner Hear what our volunteers say about us: "This was an awesome experience. I made many new friends and learned much more about birds and their ecosystems." "I was very impressed by all the opportunities I was given to learn and participate." "ASLC is a great place to get marine animal exposure and learn about the marine field." "It was a wonderful experience, the people are great!" "I had a fabulous time working at ASLC!" All volunteer positions may include performing other duties related to the Center's goals and mission statement.        Apply Here       

ASLC Internship Program Are you looking for an exciting internship opportunity? The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is sponsoring internship programs for college students or graduates who are interested in gaining a one-of-a-kind experience in a world class marine facility. ASLC internships offer a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas within the Center. Depending on the type of internship, duties may include assisting aquarium, avian, or marine mammal staff with animal husbandry tasks; helping with marine-related research projects, or as support in our education department.  Our Internship Program includes: SUMMER Internships: May through early August FALL Internships: October through December WINTER Internships: January through April   Program Information The internships are unpaid.    Housing is provided.   Participation in the program requires 40 hours per week.   A background check will be conducted on all potential interns.   Interns will be required to sign a contract agreeing to a start and end date.   College credit can be earned but must be arranged by you and your college.   Interns are responsible for their own meals and travel expenses.   ASLC does not sponsor visas for foreign students.     Application Instructions Complete the application for no more than 2 positions. Be sure to provide us with the best e-mail and phone number for contacting you.   If you are applying for 2 internships, you must complete an application for each one.   Upload the required additional information to your application. Cover Letter(s) Resume At least 1 letter of recommendation   Incomplete applications will not be considered. For more information on becoming an intern, please email HR@alaskasealife.org.  Current Internship Openings:   

  Support the Center by Donating Items From out Amazon Wishlist!  There are many meaningful ways to support the Alaska SeaLife Center, and one simple way to make a direct impact is through our Amazon Wishlist! Each item purchased helps care for the animals and programs that make our mission possible. From enrichment toys for our resident animals, tools needed by our ops team for maintenence, to formula for patients in our Wildlife Response Program, all donations go directly to the teams and make an immediate impact.    Select what item you'd like to donate on the ASLC Amazon Wishlist!    After making your purchase, please fill out our quick Amazon Wishlist Donation Form so our team can thank you and keep track of your generous support! We do not get information on who sent what item through Amazon, and we'd love to thank you!    Thank you for being part of the ASLC community and helping us care for Alaska’s marine life!  Questions? Feel free to reach out to development@alaskasealife.org.         

2025 Teacher Workshop One Ocean: The Ocean Connects Us All We are partnering with the National Park Service to host a teacher workshop at the Alaska SeaLife Center on October 24-26 for 4th through 8th grade teachers. The theme this year is One Ocean: The Ocean Connects Us All. In this workshop, we will engage in nature journaling, learn local coastal ecology, and use ocean literacy to inspire students to care for their environment. We will also include conversations about cultural connections to the ocean and the value of marine environments to local people. Please submit the following application by September 26: https://forms.gle/s6m1KTxDDbeaBa1N8 If you have any questions, please reach out to the ASLC Education Department at education@alaskasealife.org. In case you didn't already know...  Alaska teachers always receive free general admission to the Alaska SeaLife Center - just present a teacher ID or pay stub at the ticket counter!

Legacy Society Your Legacy is Our Future  You can be a part of the Alaska SeaLife Center's critical work by leaving a gift through your estate plans. A planned gift allows you to support our mission after your lifetime so future generations can enjoy the bounty of Alaska's oceans. Anyone, regardless of age or financial status, can create a legacy gift to the Alaska SeaLife Center. How to Make a Planned Gift A planned gift can be as simple as naming the Alaska SeaLife Center in your will or designating the Center as a beneficiary on your retirement plan or life insurance policy. The Alaska SeaLife Center Endowment Fund, established through the Alaska Community Foundation, enables additional options for planned gifts through the Foundation's unique expertise.  Sample language to use when making a planned gift to the Alaska SeaLife Center Endowment Fund:   “I bequeath __________________________________ (describe dollar amount, property to be given, or proportion of your residuary estate) to The Alaska Community Foundation (EIN# 92-0155067), a tax exempt organization under IRS Section 501(c)(3), to be added to the Alaska SeaLife Center Endowment Fund, a component fund of The Alaska Community Foundation, and I direct that this bequest become part of this fund.”  Benefits of Planned Giving When you notify us about your gift, we will enroll you in the Alaska SeaLife Center Legacy Society. You will receive invitations to special events and be recognized in our annual report and e-newsletters, unless you choose to remain anonymous. All communications you have with our staff about planned giving is strictly confidential.      We are grateful to those who support the Alaska SeaLife Center through planned giving. Through your gift, you are ensuring that future generations will learn about and care for Alaska's oceans. To learn more about how to enroll, please contact our Development Office at 907-224-6396 or development@alaskasealife.org or download the brochure.      

Back-to-Back Rescues Bring Two Orphaned Sea Otter Pups to ASLC for Rehabilitation and Veterinary Treatment   Seward, Alaska (November 17, 2025): The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) recently admitted two orphaned northern sea otter pups rescued from the Homer area within a two-week span. A female, estimated to be less than two months old, was found alone and extremely malnourished on the beach. Ten days later, a male otter pup was reported in the same region after a fall storm moved through the area. The male pup is estimated to be between 4 and 6 months old and was found in a less severe emaciated state, but lethargic, alone, and in poor condition.    Reports of both otters came through ASLC’s 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline (1-888-774-7325), prompting swift responses from ASLC’s wildlife response team. Staff and volunteers observed each pup closely to ensure no adult otters were caring for the pups. When no adults were spotted, the animals were transported to Seward for urgent veterinary care at the ASLC with prior authorization from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).    The female pup is currently in critical condition and receiving intensive care after arriving at the Center on October 20, 2025, extremely malnourished, dehydrated, severely anemic, and weak.   “Usually, when an otter pup is first admitted and receiving its first veterinary exam, it will vocalize often and move around a lot. This pup was so lethargic and weak that she barely made any noise, which was immediately concerning,” said ASLC Veterinarian Dr. Emmanuelle Furst.    Since the female pup’s arrival, she has slowly started to gain weight and strength with 24-hour care and veterinary treatment. She continues to have gastrointestinal issues, which the ASLC animal care and veterinary teams are watching closely. Ten days later, an older male pup, estimated to be around 4 to 6 months old, was admitted after being found alone and resting unusually high up on the beach in Homer. He appeared weak and lethargic, and birds had begun to gather near and peck at him. The male pup is currently undergoing additional medical tests to better understand his condition and prepare targeted veterinary treatments, as he fights to overcome his health challenges.  With these two newest sea otter patients, the Alaska SeaLife Center is now caring for four orphaned sea otter pups, all of whom will be deemed non-releasable due to their young age (under six months old) and their dependence on intensive human care. The wildlife response program has seen an uptick in orphaned, injured, and deceased sea otter reports across the state this year, and the ASLC continues to run tests to better understand what is impacting the wild populations.  These young otters’ stories serve as a powerful reminder of Alaska’s unique wildlife and the ecosystems they rely on, and our shared responsibility to protect them. As the state’s only permanent marine wildlife response and rehabilitation facility, the Alaska SeaLife Center remains committed to giving every animal the best possible chance at survival while deepening understanding of the ocean we all depend on.  The ASLC Wildlife Response Program operates year-round to respond to and care for stranded and orphaned marine animals across the state. You can help make rescues like these possible by donating to support their care and by reporting animals in need. Before approaching an injured or stranded marine animal, call the 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL (7325). Your Support Matters  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.              

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) and multiple partners responded to a male ringed seal that was found out of his habitat on an oilfield in Alaska’s Beaufort Sea on Dec. 17, 2025. This is the Center’s first ringed seal response in over four years and one of only 30 ringed seals admitted in the Center’s more than 25-year history, making the case exceptional for the ASLC Wildlife Response Program.  The seal, part of the Arctic subspecies listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, was first observed by oilfield operators. Staff contacted NOAA Fisheries, the federal agency that manages the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program, for guidance. With coordination from NOAA Fisheries, the ASLC, the local operators, and Alaska Clean Seas, the young ringed seal was brought back to the ice, but repeatedly returned to the oilfield.  The ice extending along the coast of Alaska’s Beaufort Sea is a remote Arctic region where winter sea ice extends miles from shore and is often stacked by high winds, making it unlikely that humans could safely escort the seal to open water. Crews at the oilfield used an auger to drill breathing holes in the ice to encourage the seal to access the sea. Although the seal placed his head in the open holes, he did not swim away. When the seal was found moving into areas with heavy machinery, and taking into account the seasonal low light conditions, he was placed into a crate to prevent accidental injury from vehicles. With continued risk to the animal, NOAA Fisheries authorized transport to the ASLC for rehabilitation (MMPA/ESA Permit #24359).  Any response involving ice seals in Alaska requires careful consideration of regulatory policy and respect for the Indigenous communities that rely on these animals for subsistence. In rehabilitation situations involving Alaska’s four ice seal species (ringed, spotted, bearded, and ribbon), the ASLC follows a precautionary non-release policy developed by NOAA Fisheries, an Alaska Native organization, and the Ice Seal Committee: ice seals transported outside of their natural range for treatment and care are not eligible for release. This policy eliminates the risk of disease transmission between marine ecosystems from these individuals, particularly for animals originating from remote and culturally significant regions. In this case, the collaborative decision to admit this ringed seal was not made lightly, as it shapes this seal’s future.  “This response reflects the complexity of wildlife response in Alaska,” said Jane Belovarac, ASLC Wildlife Response Curator. “Our priority with live animals is always to rehabilitate, release, and see animals thrive in the wild. When relocation efforts in situations like this are unsuccessful, and the animal remaining in place is not safe, we are prepared to provide the specialized care needed to ensure their well-being.” ?Currently, only the ASLC and two other facilities in the United States care for ringed seals. As one of the very few ringed seals in human care and a member of the Arctic subspecies listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, this seal will serve as an important ambassador for his species and teach us more about the challenges that his species faces as Arctic conditions continue to change.  The ASLC remains committed to working alongside federal agencies, Indigenous partners, and industry collaborators to protect the health of ice seal populations and the ecosystems they depend on. This response reflects the complexity of conservation work in Alaska’s rapidly changing Arctic and the importance of thoughtful, collaborative decision-making when human activity and wildlife intersect. We thank the partners and crews involved in the response, including Alaska Clean Seas, the Ice Seal Committee, members of the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program, and NOAA Fisheries.    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, Mesara Family Foundation, The Theresa Bannister Fund, 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).             

Beers by the Bay returns November 12! Spend an evening sampling local Alaskan beer and wine and enjoy a heavy appetizer buffet.  What better way to welcome fall than a gathering with friends, food, and fermented beverages at the Alaska SeaLife Center?    SOLD OUT but Sponsorships still available - click here to purchase!