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If you subscribe to our blog or follow us on social media, you probably know that our beloved (and quite elderly!) Barney underwent a procedure on November 17 to diagnose potential age-related health issues. The procedure, performed with Barney under general anesthesia, went well and the team was able to perform all the desired tests.

Join Dr. Shawn Larson, curator of conservation research at the Seattle Aquarium, as she shares the latest on one of our many field research efforts in this special two-part guest post.

No matter the time, no matter the day, someone on duty at the Aquarium, ensuring that our life support systems are running smoothly and the animals entrusted to us are getting exactly what they need.

Orcas depend on wide expanses of protected waters to swim and forage. Unfortunately, due to low food availability, high levels of pollution, and noise and disturbances from vessels, the southern resident orcas are on the brink of extinction. With the additional loss of three orcas this summer, the population is down to only 73 individuals. Right now, we have an opportunity to take positive action to help change that trajectory.

Barney the harbor seal is a beloved icon at the Seattle Aquarium. He was born here in 1985 and, over his 34 years, has touched the hearts of countless visitors, volunteers and staff.

What would happen if zoo and aquarium animals received reviews similar to those on websites like Amazon and Yelp? That question was answered hilariously last year, when #rateaspecies became a viral hit on social media.

In this special guest post, our own Jim Wharton shares the backstory of Catastrophe by the Sea, a newly published, empathy-themed children’s book, which was inspired from our work to develop empathy for animals to promote conservation. Check out his story below to learn how it all came about and where you can get a copy for the little readers in your life.

The Oregon Marbled Murrelet Project (OMMP) is a long-term study and one of the most well-funded projects on this species in the United States. The marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) is a type of alcid, or diving seabird, that uniquely nests far from shore in old-growth forests.

Once again, it’s election season and the Seattle Aquarium would like to encourage you to vote in the upcoming November 5 general election. There are many great candidates and important issues that will be appearing on your ballot and I firmly believe that our democracy, communities and environment are healthier when more people participate in our election process.

Final installment. Seattle Aquarium Animal Care Specialist Caroline Hempstead traveled to the coastline of Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve from June 28 to July 10, 2019. Caroline assisted with a variety of research being conducted as part of a long-term monitoring program of the area. Check out Caroline’s account of her experiences in Alaska!

Recently, youth from around the world raised their collective voice by taking part in the Youth Climate Strike to help raise awareness—and demand action—on the important issue of climate change. The Seattle Aquarium was incredibly proud that some of our very own Youth Ocean Advocates took part in the public march that inspired millions in cities all over the world. Below is a firsthand account from Isha Sangani, a Bellevue High School senior and Aquarium volunteer since 2016.

Part three of four. Seattle Aquarium Animal Care Specialist Caroline Hempstead traveled to the coastline of Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve from June 28 to July 10, 2019. Caroline assisted with a variety of research being conducted as part of a long-term monitoring program of the area. Check out Caroline’s account of her experiences in Alaska!