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Coverage: Saying goodbye to Barney

A white wave shape.
Harbor seal Barney looking up and smiling.

Remembering Barney

Illustration of kelp.

1985–2025

Illustration of kelp.

The Seattle Aquarium remembers Barney the harbor seal, a beloved member of the Aquarium family for nearly 40 years who passed in March 2025.

He was one of the oldest known harbor seals in human care and touched the hearts of millions of Aquarium staff, volunteers and visitors during his long life. Born at the Aquarium in 1985, he enjoyed the simple things in life, like napping in the sunshine and eating his favorite fishy snacks.

A charismatic ambassador for his species, Barney inspired a lot of love for his fellow harbor seals. We miss him dearly.

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