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One year ago I sat in a conference meeting room and listened intently as Rita Vondra of the Chicago Zoological Society presented on a research project currently underway and needing assisted funding in Punta San Juan.  The project centered around the need to evaluate endangered fur seals and sea lions which reside in an remote preserve located in Punta San Juan. The health of this Peruvian population is essentially unknown. Biologists are attempting to study the population in an effort to identify and evaluate current threats  affecting the populations. Located approximately 250 miles south of Lima,   near San Juan de Marcona,  the Punta San Juan Marine Protected Area  supports key populations of many endangered and threatened species. This reserve is home to nearly half of the endangered Humboldt penguins in Peru. It contains several hundred thousand sea birds as a key nesting area.  The reserve also has key rookeries for the South American sea lion and Peruvian fur seal, both of which have seen severe declines in Peruvian population sizes. Biologists goals focus on the ability to evaluate the population health of the wildlife and to develop cohesive conservation strategies.   Through assessments we hope to determine indicators as to disease and toxicant exposure, reproductive success, population stability, population genetics and overall population resilience to external threats.  Information gathering is crucial. The more information we are able to learn from these animals, the greater our chances are of protecting these species.   

As I listened to the presentation a year ago, I felt compelled to become involved in research that could truly make a difference in protecting wild populations of seals and sea lions that are currently endangered.  These animals live in a remote  part of the world, in what should be a healthy sustainable environment.  Yet scientists have seen dramatic declines in population numbers with questions revolving around over fishing, environmental contamination, toxicant exposure and the health of our oceans. At Oceans of Fun we have dedicated our lives to marine mammal care and conservation through public education. Our animals are ambassadors for those in the wild, teaching our guests about marine mammals, their environment and conservation needs.   Although we wish that our oceans provided  a  healthy environment  for wildlife, we are keenly aware of the threats which numerous species now face due to mans destruction and lack of protection.  And so the opportunity to make in difference knocked upon our door.   

After months of preparation the time has finally arrived.  Today is packing day.  Packing for this trip is a bit complicated and involves not only clothing but also food, sleeping bags, wet suits and daily necessities. Regardless of the size of the suitcase, this is a challenge! Tomorrow the plane heads south.  First to Atlanta Georgia where I will meet up with my colleagues from the Chicago Zoological Society and St. Louis Zoo , then off to Lima. Even with all my research and reading, the unknown of this region is upon me and certain to be exciting and full of surprises!