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Fight Ocean Pollution – Become the Solution Join Our World Oceans Month and create a #DebrisFreeSea!   We need your help! The extreme threat of marine debris with its devastating effects on marine life has been recognized by governments and environmental organizations around the world. Join Ocean Connections and members of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA) and the European Association for Aquatic Mammals (EAAM) in the social media campaign to raise awareness of marine debris and motivate people around the world to clean up and prevent more trash from entering our world’s oceans. What Can You Do? ·         Reduce, Reuse, Recycle ·         Cut the loop of rubber bands and six pack rings before disposing of them ·         Organize or join clean-up activities in your area ·         Post, tweet, and share daily messages about marine debris, conservation, marine life and your efforts to help using the hashtag #DebrisFreeSea.  Let’s go viral and spread the messages around the world!   Be Part of the Global Effort. Download the free Marine Debris Tracker app for your smartphone or tablet and join a team. ·         In the U.S. and Outside of Europe: Log in to the app as Team Alliance (password: dolphin) ·         In Europe: Log in to the app as Team EAAM (password: monkseal) Be sure to follow us on Facebook to learn more about how you can help us create a #DebrisFreeSea! Working Together, We Can Create a #DebrisFreeSea

Ocean Connections is committed to animal conservation globally.  Recently our conservation efforts have led to the Alaskan coastline and one of the largest walrus sanctuaries in North America. Round Island is one of 7 small islands that are protected by the Walrus Islands State Game Sanctuary (WISGS).  This string of islands located in Bristol Bay, AK forms a sanctuary for several species of seabirds, Stellar sea lions and is one of the largest terrestrial haul out sites in North America for pacific walrus with counts of 2,000 – 5,000 walrus residing.  The remote wilderness is uninhabited with the exception of a small field camp on Round Island which provides the opportunity for wildlife to be monitored and the sanctuary protected.    With the amount of sea ice decreasing due to climate change, studying the population patterns of the Pacific walrus at these protected land haul out sites can provide us with much needed information regarding their habits including information about their breeding season, haul out time between food dives, length of food dives before returning to haul out, frequency of disturbances, results of disturbances and so much more.  The Alaska Department of Fish and Game provides staff at a Camp on Round Island through the summer months.  These staff members are responsible for a number of duties that aide in protecting and monitoring the Island and its inhabitants.  In 2015, some of their duties included installing 5 live webcams around the island, conducting daily population counts and various data collection, aiding in the remote imaging of haul out spaces, monitoring the island for possible disturbances that may cause the walrus to flee, and helping to minimize the sources for disturbances. As one of the largest members of the pinniped family, which includes seals and sea lions, walruses are a critical member of the marine ecosystem. The Pacific walrus is found in the Bering and Chukchi seas, hauling out on sea ice and on the coasts of Alaska and Russia.  ice is not available, the walrus population is forced to adapt and will move to rest on rocky shores and beaches.  The success of    their haul out space; however, is dependent on the availability of their food source, which includes clams, snails, and sea cucumbers on low depth beds below the sea surface. Walrus spend a great deal of their day exerting calories foraging; which requires repeated shallow dives in order to acquire a sufficient quantity of food.  Between dives, walrus are dependent upon ice or beaches within close range to their foraging locations for rest.  As the ice decreases, their ability to successfully reach their food source decreases as well, unless there is a nearby beach such Round Island which can serve as a haul out area for walrus.  Life expectancy for the walrus can be up to 40 years; however, the change within our climate is impacting their survival. The health and stability of the walrus population is largely unknown at this time, due to the fact that walrus are a difficult species to study.  Walrus are known to be a flighty species, meaning they will flee into the ocean for days on end due at even the slightest disturbance, such as crashing rocks or a passing boat.  When walrus flee suddenly, a stampede occurs which often results to trampling of other animals, causing injury and death and can result in the colony remaining at sea for extended periods of time. Round Island plays an important role in the conservation of this specie allowing field researchers to learn more about their behavior, environmental needs and challenges through observation, all while protecting the resource of their environment which they are so dependent upon.   Unfortunately, this past year, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game was unable to provide the funds to continue to staff Round Island as they have for many years.  Ocean Connections is a part of a team of accredited facilities that is committed to supporting the continued efforts of the WISGS.  Through the support of generous donations led by Ocean Connections, Alaska Sea Life Center, Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium, Georgia Aquarium and Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Round Island continues to be staffed and operational during the summer months. These continued efforts in collecting valuable data and monitoring and protecting Round Island and its inhabitants, make it possible to learn more about the walrus, which will allow for a plan to be created and implemented that will hopefully aide in the longevity of the Pacific walrus. Learn more about Round Island and the Pacific walrus population here - http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=walrusislands.main (Photo Credit to Alaska Department of Fish and Game) Watch the live video feed during the summer months, or highlight reels during the off season here - http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=walrusislands.main Make a donation today to help support Ocean Connections and the work at Round Island. Click here! http://oceansoffun.org/giving_back

Daily, thousands of people around the nation use facial cleansers and toothpastes that are damaging the environment. You may ask, how can a face wash harm the environment? The answer is what is inside of them, small plastic beads called microbeads. A microbead is defined as a plastic particle less than 5 millimeters in length and is used to exfoliate. These beads get washed down the drain, are often too small to get caught in water filters, and then are released into lakes, streams, and even oceans. Once microbeads have entered a marine environment, such as Lake Michigan or the ocean, it then becomes considered a form of microplastic marine debris. Animals such as fish and birds can mistake these beads and other plastics for fish eggs or other forms of food. Once the animals eat them it can lead to death, but also microbeads effect the food chain. Plastic absorbs contaminants in water leading to a single microbead being 1 million times more toxic that it’s surrounding water. This may not be a large concern for the primary consumer that eats it such as a fish, but when a larger animal comes along and eats multiple fish that have eaten plastics, the threat grows as the toxin levels grow. This growth of toxin buildup can follow the food chain in a full circle to humans as well. Microbeads also add to the large amount of microplastic garbage patches forming in our world’s oceans. Garbage patches form when currents meet forming a reel of trash. For more information on marine debris formation of oceanic garbage patches go to http://oceansoffun.org/marine_debris. What are we doing to aid in the solution of the problem? On December 28, 2015 President Obama enacted a bill to prohibit the manufacturing of products which contain microbeads beginning July 1, 2017 and will phases out the sales of products containing microbeads in the next two years. This bill follows many other states banning microbeads first. For those who already own products containing microbeads and don’t know if they should continue using their products of throw them away, there is a better solution. 5 Gyres is an organization dedicated to researching and understanding how plastic effects our environments. 5 Gyres will accept used products containing microbeads to use in educational kits. Products that say they contain polyethylene and polypropylene contain microbeads. Send these products to 5 Gyres and you can help do your part stopping the use of microbeads as well as continuing the education about their effects on the world’s oceans. 5 Gyres Institute, 3131 Olympic Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404 Include your name and email address so they can send a thank you for your help in education. While microbeads are a huge problem in adding to microplastic marine debris, they are not the only product of concern. Recent studies have found another form of plastic effecting specifically Lake Michigan; microfibers. Microfibers are small fibers which come out of our clothes made of polyester or polyurethane in the wash. When flushed out of the wash they can make their way into waterways. As the battle towards stopping the use and cleaning up microbeads continues to grow, continue to be mindful of other forms of plastic that can make their way into waterways as well. Being mindful of purchases and what products are made of as well as always remembering to recycle are key steps in working together to build a safer, cleaner environment for all organisms to thrive on earth. Sources http://seagrant.noaa.gov/News/FeatureStories/TabId/268/ArtMID/715/ArticleID/472/Plastic-fibers-emerge-as-Lake-Michigan-pollutant.aspx http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/types-and-sources-solutions/states-consider-plastic-microbead-bans http://www.5gyres.org/microbead/ http://education.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/great-pacific-garbage-patch/

The vaquita is a small species of porpoise found only in the northern Gulf of California and is nearing extinction at a rapid pace.  Vaquitas were once thriving with close to 5,000 animals but since 2011 we have lost over 90% of this beautiful animal’s population.  The most significant threat to the vaquita’s survival is entanglement in fixed fishing nets or gillnets.  More than 300,000 whales, porpoises, and dolphins get entangled in fishing nets annually and most don’t survive.  While gillnets are illegal, they are continuing to be used which is detrimental to the vaquita’s survival.  If this issue is ignored, we will lose the vaquita forever.  Organizations accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums from around the world are contributing expertise and knowledge to assist these conservation efforts.  We can’t do it alone and need your help! Help save the vaquita!                                             

Ocean Connections was established in 2018 as a registered 501(c)3, non-profit organization with the mission of providing science-based education and conservation stewardship.  Ocean Connections strives to support the exceptional animal welfare and conservation efforts of accredited zoological institutions while advancing environmental protection projects of our own. It is our goal to inspire conservation leadership through educational opportunities, social media engagement, and meaningful connections with our animal ambassadors.  We aim to protect marine mammals and the environment for future generations to come.   Why We Do What We Do: Animals in the wild are facing challenges that have made accredited zoological institutions essential to their survival.  Our Saving Species initiative features local and global conservation projects geared toward: Raising awareness about challenges wildlife are facing including overfishing, pollution, and habitat loss Providing assitance with the rescue and rehabilitation of stranded marine mammals Organizing and participating in local beach clean ups   The Challenges They Face: Many human-caused obstacles like overfishing, pollution, oil spills and more are impacting ecosystems worldwide.  As these challenges alter the natural habitats of various species, we can all make a positive impact on marine life by learning more about the problems they are facing.  Ocean Connections is dedicated to raising awareness about the struggles they are encountering including but not limited to: Unusual Mortality Event - This is the mass stranding of any marine animal.  Since January of 2015, over 8,400 California sea lions have standed off the coast.  Studies show that global climate change, pollution, and habitat loss are just a few of the factors contributing to these strandings. Plastic Pollution - Every year, 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in our oceans making it one of the biggest challenges to marine life.  Approximately 100,000 marine mammals are killed annually by plastic debris. Overfishing - Finding food has become increasingly more difficult for marine life as we continue to take fish out of the ocean quicker than populations can reproduce.  33% of fish populations are overfished and 50% are fully fished endangering food sources for marine life and humans alike.   Being Part of the Solution Ocean Connections is commited to assisting wildlife worldwide and our goal is to inspire public participation in conservation efforts.  All of our futures are tied to the ocean and it is our hope that by sharing our animal ambassadors with others that we can foster understanding through meaningful connections.  Ocean Connections is proud to partner with accredited zoological institutions like Ocean Connections as these facilities have become safe havens for threatened and endangered species.  There are many ways you can get involved with our global and local conservation efforts including: Become a Sponsor - Help us, help them!  By donating or becoming a sponsor today, you can help assist with our exceptional animal welfare and conservation programs. Recycling - Reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills by recycling! Skip the Straw -  Single use plastics like straws are dangerous to wildlife.  Over 500 million straws are used in the U.S. every day!  Whenever possible, refuse straws or use reusable straws! Reusable Containers - Use glass, metal, or other reusable products whenever possible. Sustainable Seafood - Utilize the Seafood Watch Pocket Guide to make informed and sustainable seafood choices when you're out at the grocery store or restaurants! Get Involved - Participate in local beach clean-ups and/or sign up for our Fan Club to receive news and information about our community events.      

On November 21, 2016, a call came in from a lifeguard to the Pacific Marine Mammal Center regarding a stranded animal near Huntington Beach, California.  This four-month old California sea lion pup was trapped in storm drain, sick, trembling, and lethargic.  The rescue team jumped into action and was successfully able to rescue her and transport her to the center for treatment. Upon arrival, she was treated for a variety of ailments including dehydration, high fever, and seizures.  She was severely underweight at only 20 pounds whereas pups her age are typically around 60 pounds.  The animal care team at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center worked around the clock to ensure the health and welfare of this patient.  She was initially tube fed a neonate formula to ensure she was getting the calories she needed.  Once she started eating fish, it became clear that this gentle and sweet pup was incapable of developing the skills needed to forage on her own due to her dependency upon human care. The Pacific Marine Mammal Rescue Center is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of stranded animals.  Since January 2015 over 7,000 California sea lions have stranded in what the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association has deemed an Unusual Mortality Event or UME.  This refers a mass stranding of any marine mammal.  This UME has required an immedciate and continued response from the Pacific Marine Mammal Center who rescued close to 600 in 2015 alone, the most in their history!  This increase is due to a variety of challenges affecting our world's oceans from pollution, global climate change, overfishing and more!  In an effort to conserve these species, rescue and rehabilitation centers play a critical role in saving a variety of animals.  While these efforts have contributed greatly to saving emaciated animals, not every individual is deemed releasable. This is when accredited zoological institutions are asked to step in.  Accredited facilities like Ocean Connections are called upon to provide a forever home for animals that are unable to survive out in the wild.  We welcomed the opporutnity to give this pup a second chance at life.  In August 2017, the Ocean Connections animal care team welcomed this California sea lion to Milwaukee, Wisconsin with the help of multiple accredited zoological organizations and FedEx®.  Our collaboration is rooted in our joint efforts in working diligently to save species worldwide.  Ocean Connections is tremendously grateful for the assistance from the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, Alaska SeaLife Center, Milwaukee County Zoo, and FedEx® without whom this rescue would not be possible.  FedEx® even graciously sponsored Moana!  Transporting a sea lion is no easy task but FedEx®'s support is assisting in ensuring that her arrival is a happy homecoming for all parties involved.  We are please to say that she continues to grow and is extremely healthy but our efforts do not stop here. Moana’s case is not unique and scientists have been researching why a mass stranding of this particular marine mammal is occurring.  Pollution, global climate change, and overfishing are just a few of the challenges these animals are facing.  Domoic Acid Poisoning is affecting numerous species and is a major cause of their population decline.  Domoic Acid is a naturally occurring biotoxin that does not present danger in small quantities.  However this neurotoxin is produced by harmful algae blooms and in the last 20 years we have seen an alarming increase in its presence in our world oceans.  These blooms are consumed by fish which are then consumed by various animals.  Seabirds, pinnipeds, and even humans are being affected once they digest too many contaminated fish.  California sea lions are the pinniped most being affected by this toxin due to their food sources and foraging range which is making their future questionable. There's good news, though!  By sharing Moana's story we can spread the word of the challenges animals just like her are facing out in the wild.  We can work together with our friends, families, and communities to do simple tasks like recycling and reducing the amount of energy we use.  When you visit accredited zoological institutions like Ocean Connections you are making a difference for the many species that call us home.  Help us help them.  If you would like to contribute to our conservation efforts and Moana's second chance you can do so by clicking here.  For updates on Moana's progress visit her page or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and add us on Snapchat using the username oceansoffun! Photos courtesy of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center  

Ocean Connections is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Our mission is to inspire conservation leadership and public action for our worlds ocean through education. Join us at any of our upcoming events to learn more and support our cause.   BEACH & RIVER CLEAN-UPS Join Us for our Beach & River Clean-Ups! Team up with Ocean Connections to protect our local and global waterways! Trash receptacles will be provided. Please bring gloves if you have them. Hershey River Clean-Up: 9/26: 9:30-10:30am @ Swatara Creek Myrtle Beach Clean-Up: 9/27: 10am-12pm @ 8th Avenue Beach Panama City Beach Clean-Up: 9/20: 9am-12pm @ Pier Park Pigeon Forge River Clean-Up: 9/27:10am-12pm @ Pigeon Forge Greenway If you have any questions, please contact us at education@oceanconnections.org or (414) 246-7068.       _______________________________________________________________________

Ocean Connections is excited to be offering two brand new opportunities to spread some love, fun, and positivity.  You can now invite one of our seals and sea lions to share a special message for you or to join in your virtual hangouts!  The donations for these programs helps our 501(c)3 non-profit organization with the daily feeding and care of our animal ambassadors. Check them out below!     Personalized Shout Out Have a message you would like to send a friend or a loved one?  Say it with a seal or sea lion! With every donation of $40.00, you'll receive a fully personalized shout out for you or a friend.  Whether it's wishing someone a happy birthday, sending some love on an anniversary, or simply saying hello to someone you miss, our greetings are completely customizable and include a special flippered guest.  Learn more or get yours today by clicking here.             Virtual Hangout Get the seal of approval from your co-workers when you invite one of our animal ambassadors to your next Zoom or Google Hangout meeting.  Our seals and sea lions are happy to join your next meeting to start or end your discussions on the right flipper.  From Team Building to celebrations to incentives, your donation of $250.00 allows our animal ambassadors to add an element of fun to your virtual gathering.  Learn more or make a reservation by clicking here.   

Criteria for Submission: Your design should include the name of our event: Ocean Connections Sea Lion Shuffle. It can feature a single species of sea lion, or multiple species — you choose! There is no limit to the number of entries per entrant during the entry period. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older or, if younger than 18, have the permission of a parent or guardian to enter the contest. Ocean Connections staff are not eligible to enter. Submissions must be your original artwork only. Designs should be against a white or transparent background and can contain up to 4 colors. The color of the final t-shirt will be determined based on the winning design. Dimensions of the design should be at least 10” x 10”. If your submission needs to be reproduced to ensure the highest quality of printing, we will do our best to recreate the most accurate design. How to Submit Your Design: T-shirt designs must be received by 11:59PM CT on Friday March 26th, 2021. Design entries should be sent via email to brittany@oceanconnections.org — please use “T-Shirt Design Contest” as your subject line. Designs should be in one of the following formats: JPEG, PSD, or PDF. Please send the highest-resolution files you can. Once submitted, all designs become the property of Ocean Connections, and the entrant agrees to grant exclusive use to the Ocean Connections. Ocean Connections has exclusive rights to reproduce and use any and all entries into the t-shirt contest. Entries become the property of Ocean Connections and none will be returned or acknowledged except as provided herein. The contest winner will receive a gift package or a private Aquatic Adventure. If you win, you will be notified via email, and it will be posted online on the Ocean Connections website, as well as its social media accounts. Any questions should be sent to Brittany Waryjas: brittany@oceanconnections.org Deadlines March 15, 2021 – contest begins March 26, 2021 – final day to submit art March 27, 2021 – selection of top three submissions; online voting begins March 30, 2021 – voting ends March 31, 2021 – winner revealed     << GO BACK TO EVENTS

Build a running team… and win! Teams that run together have fun together! Build a running team and help support sea lion care and conservation! One lucky team member will win a private interactive program for up to 10 participants to meet our seals and sea lions (value $1,000; ages 10+). To enter, here is what you need to do: Since this is a Stay Away 5K, your team can consist of anyone in the world! Family, friends, running team, co-workers, book club, etc. Come up with a creative team name Go to www.oceansoffun.org/store_item_detail/260 to enter. Be sure you and all of your team members enter your team name when registering. To qualify, teams must have a minimum of seven registrations. More registrants = more chances to win! Each registrant for your team = one entry for the drawing. For example, if your team has eight members register, then that team will have eight chances to win. If your team has 20 members register, then the team will have 20 chances to win! NOTE: The Ocean Connections tour has a maximum of 10 participants – but your out-of-town team members can increase your chances of winning while also helping to raise money for sea lion care and conservation! The winner will be announced on Tuesday June 1st, 2021. Winners can redeem their private tour at a future date. Questions? If you have questions about your donation, please reach out to Shelley Ballmann at shelley@oceanconnections.org. All other questions, including those related to the t-shirt design contest, should be directed to brittany@oceanconnections.org.   << GO BACK TO EVENTS

    Milwaukee Outreach Programs Ocean Connections is dedicated to inspiring conservation awareness and public action for our world’s ocean through education.  Our commitment to education continues in Wisconsin .  We offer a variety of programs for educational groups all year round.  Bring the magic of marine mammals to your classroom during one of our STEAM+ based programs that are perfect for learners of all ages!  Ocean Connections Milwaukee has two different types of outreach opportunities: School Visits and Digital Learning. Learn more about each of these by clicking here.

Ocean Connections is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring conservation awareness and public action for our world’s ocean through education.  Located in Panama City Beach, FL we provide the animal ambassador portion of the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show as well as an interactive and educational Animal Encounter.  Our “touch the heart, teach the mind” philosophy comes to life as you immerse yourself into the beautiful world of wildlife and nature.  After learning about animal training, participants will have the chance to put themselves in the shoes of our animal care team to ask one of our sea lions to show off some of the behaviors they’ve learned and feed their new flippered friend a fish. You’ll be able to see the mesmerizing macaws up close before they soar in the show. Discover how their brightly colored feathers, long tails, and unique feet help them survive in their natural environment. The Ocean Connections Education Team will even highlight how you can use our positive reinforcement training at home when you meet one of our dock-diving dogs. Don't miss out on this ultimate escapade!  In partnership with Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, Ocean Connections Panama City Beach promises an unforgettable journey filled with thrills, feasts, and furry, flippered, and feathered friends.  The show schedule varies but our Animal Encounter is offered daily.  While show tickets are not required to participate in the Animal Encounter, we highly recommend purchasing both to maximize your experience. Learn more or purchase tickets by clicking here.      

Ocean Connections is committed to community outreach and education so we are bringing the magic of marine mammals to a classroom near you! Our STEAM+ based educational curriculum is perfect for at home learners, digital classrooms, and virtual field trips. Program lengths vary depending on content but all include a virtual visit from our seals and sea lions. After reserving a Digital Learning program spot online, the day and time can be arranged by contacting Brittany at brittany@oceanconnections.org Price: $90.00 for 30 minutes $100.00 for 45 minutes Pre-School Pup Playtime Get up and moving with this animal-themed zumbini class. With the help of our flippered friends and some special animal ambassadors, learn all about locomotion and movement during this 45-minute program. RESERVE NOW Sea Lion Story Time Sit back, relax, and enjoy learning about seals and sea lions during a poolside story time. You’ll even get to hear the stories of some of the rescued California sea lions that call Ocean Connections before virtually meeting them during this 30-minute program. RESERVE NOW Kindergarten through 1st Grade Snow Way! Seals and sea lions can survive in freezing cold temperatures. How do they stay warm? Learn all about blubber and how animals stay warm during this 30-minute program. RESERVE NOW Build a Mammal What makes an animal a mammal? What about a marine mammal? Explore the characteristics of marine mammals and how they’re different from other species with the help of some special animal ambassadors and our flippered friends during this 45-minute program. RESERVE NOW 2nd – 3rd Grade Home, Sweet Ocean Seals and sea lions inhabit every ocean in the world! During this 45-minute program, discover where they live, how they survive, and how Ocean Connections strives to recreate their ocean habitat. RESERVE NOW Adaptations: Assemble! Building a marine mammal takes a lot of parts. Learn all about adaptations and how seals and sea lions need them to survive during this 45-minute program. RESERVE NOW 4th - 5th Grade How to Train Your Sea Lion Ever wondered how we train our seals and sea lions? Learn the basics during this 45-minute program featuring our animal care specialists and animal ambassadors. RESERVE NOW Sealed with Love A great deal goes into ensuring the care and welfare of our animals. Learn all about how our seals and sea lions voluntarily cooperate in their own medical work and how this helps save species around the globe. You’ll even get to witness some of these behaviors our animals know virtually during this 30-minute program. RESERVE NOW 6th - 8th Grade To the Rescue! Learn all about mass marine mammal strandings, how these animals are rescued, cared for, and what happens when they cannot be released into the wild. This 45-minute experience includes virtual visits with some of our rescued seals and sea lions. RESERVE NOW H-2-Oh No! This program delves into the make-up of water and constructing an ocean. Explore how the health of our ocean impacts our daily lives during our interactive “Who dirtied the Water?” activity. Find out during this 45-minute all about water conservation. RESERVE NOW Zoomiversity Our upper level educational experiences can be customized for high school, college, and other higher education classrooms. We have a variety of topics including but not limited to:     o Operant & Classical Conditioning     o Positive Reinforcement     o Animal Training     o Reading Animal Behavior     o Veterinary Care & Observations     o Pinniped Physiology Contact Brittany at brittany@oceanconnections.org to reserve.    

Daily Schedule for Hershey, PA Ocean Connections is a separate, 501(c)3 non-profit organization that operates within Hersheypark.  We offer programs that are fun for the whole family! This page is updated frequently so be sure to check back for the most current schedule.  All proceeds from these programs directly contribute to the care and welfare of our animals.   Seal & Sea Lion Demonstrations Visit your friends from the sea at the Hersheypark Aquatheatre!  This 15-20 minute presentation highlights the natural grace, agility, and coordination of seals and sea lions. Offered Daily at 11:30, 1:00, 2:30, and 4:30p.m. Seal & Sea Lion Demonstrations are included with valid Hersheypark admission.     Seal & Sea Lion Feeding and Photo Opportunities Come meet our animals and support ocean conservation with our daily Seal & Sea Lion Feedings!  Chat with our animal care team, bring the whole family poolside to meet one of our flippered friends, and experience the magic of marine mammals up close! Offered Daily at 11:30, 1:00, 2:30, and 4:30p.m.  Tickets are valid for the day of purchase.  *Feed & Photo Sessions will occur following the Seal & Sea Lion Demonstrations.     Ocean Encounter - Touch & Feed Get ready for an up-close and personal experience with one of the amazing animal ambassadors of Ocean Connections.  Participants iin this program will have the opportunity to feed and give a back rub to one of our seals or sea lions.  Plus, we'll capture the moment with a commemorative photo.  Take a tour behind-the-scenes to learn more about how we care for our animals before enjoying preferred seating for our Seal & Sea Lion Demonstration! Offered Daily. Check-in begins at 3:45. Advanced registration is required and limited spots are available.  Learn more or register today by clicking here.   Water Friends Tour This interactive experience features the opportunity to meet ZooAmerica's river otters and participate in a training session with a seal or sea lion at Ocean Connections. Offered Saturdays & Sundays at: 11:00am. Advanced registration is required and limited spots are available.  Learn more or register today by clicking here.              

Ocean Connections is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring conservation awareness and public action for our world’s ocean through education.  Located in Panama City Beach, FL, we provide the animal ambassador portion of the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show as well as an interactive and educational Animal Encounter.  Our “touch the heart, teach the mind” philosophy comes to life as you immerse yourself into the beautiful world of wildlife and nature.  After learning about animal training, participants will have the chance to put themselves in the shoes of our animal care team to ask one of our sea lions to show off some of the behaviors they’ve learned and feed their new flippered friend a fish. You’ll be able to see the mesmerizing macaws up close before they soar in the show. Discover how their brightly colored feathers, long tails, and unique feet help them survive in their natural environment. The Ocean Connections Education Team will even highlight how you can use our positive reinforcement training at home when you meet one of our dock-diving dogs. Don't miss out on this ultimate escapade!  In partnership with Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, Ocean Connections Panama City Beach promises an unforgettable journey filled with thrills, feasts, and furry, flippered, and feathered friends. Learn more or purchase tickets by clicking here.      

Host Your Next Event at Ocean Connections! Whether you're looking to enjoy a private Seal & Sea Lion Show, propose to or marry the love of your life, celebrate an anniversary, plan a birthday party, or anything and everything in between, Ocean Connections can customize an event just for you! Spend your next occasion with your favorite flippered friends: our seals and sea lions.  Please fill out and submit the form below and an Ocean Connections Events Staff Member will be in contact with you shortly! Please note that we currently only host events at our Hershey, PA location.    

Ocean Connections is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring conservation awareness and public action for our world’s ocean through education.  Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, we provide the animal ambassador portion of the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show as well as an interactive and educational Animal Encounter.  Our “touch the heart, teach the mind” philosophy comes to life as you immerse yourself into the beautiful world of wildlife and nature.  After learning about animal training, participants will have the chance to put themselves in the shoes of our animal care team to ask one of our sea lions to show off some of the behaviors they’ve learned and feed their new flippered friend a fish. You’ll be able to see the mesmerizing macaws up close before they soar in the show. Discover how their brightly colored feathers, long tails, and unique feet help them survive in their natural environment. The Ocean Connections Education Team will even highlight how you can use our positive reinforcement training at home when you meet one of our dock-diving dogs. Don't miss out on this ultimate escapade!  In partnership with Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, Ocean Connections Pigeon Forge promises an unforgettable journey filled with thrills, feasts, and furry, flippered, and feathered friends.  The show schedule varies but our Animal Encounter is offered daily.  While show tickets are not required to participate in the Animal Encounter, we highly recommend purchasing both to maximize your experience. Learn more or purchase tickets by clicking here.      

Ocean Connections is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring conservation awareness and public action for our world’s ocean through education.  Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, we provide the animal ambassador portion of the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show as well as an interactive and educational Animal Encounter.  Our “touch the heart, teach the mind” philosophy comes to life as you immerse yourself into the beautiful world of wildlife and nature.  After learning about animal training, participants will have the chance to put themselves in the shoes of our animal care team to ask one of our sea lions to show off some of the behaviors they’ve learned and feed their new flippered friend a fish. You’ll be able to see the mesmerizing macaws up close before they soar in the show. Discover how their brightly colored feathers, long tails, and unique feet help them survive in their natural environment. The Ocean Connections Education Team will even highlight how you can use our positive reinforcement training at home when you meet one of our dock-diving dogs. Don't miss out on this ultimate escapade!  In partnership with Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, Ocean Connections Pigeon Forge promises an unforgettable journey filled with thrills, feasts, and furry, flippered, and feathered friends.  The show schedule varies but our Animal Encounter is offered daily.  While show tickets are not required to participate in the Animal Encounter, we highly recommend purchasing both to maximize your experience. Learn more or purchase tickets by clicking here.      

Talise's Big Adventure Over the past 11 weeks our sweet Talise has conquered many feats. This past week, Talise conquered our 18-foot pool like a star! Before reaching this big milestone, Talise had to become comfortable in our 6-foot holding pools. Talise also met all of her other pool mates and began to form relationships with each seal and sea lion. It was important for Talise to be comfortable around all of her flippered friends before entering the big pool to help ensure that she would feel as secure as possible in her new environment. Colby, our 1-year-old juvenile sea lion has proven to be a great playmate for Talise. Once the trainers at Oceans of Fun were confident in Talise’s swimming ability, it was time to open the gate to a brand new world of fun! It took just moments and some coaxing from her mother Sonoma for Talise to leave the comfort of the holding pool and venture into the deep blue! Funny enough Sonoma, who has turned into an outstanding mother, decided she was not to sure about Talise exploring the big pool. Sonoma was at Talise’s side the whole time and worked hard to persuade our little pup to stay on land by playing with her and strategically positioning herself convincing Talise to nurse. We all quickly learned that it was not only Talise's comfort which had to develop but moms too! Since that first day out in the main pool, Sonoma has become more comfortable and each day allows Talise to dive deeper and explore her new playground! Over the next few months, Talise will continue to explore the main pool and be exposed to the show atmosphere. This is all part of her informal training with us! Be sure to come out this summer and visit us, and you may get a chance to watch Talise’s playful antics - she's sure to delight you!

Talise is growing quickly!  This past week she has reached the milestone of learning to swim in one of our pools!   The past five weeks have been full of nursing, growing and exploring for our little Talise. At birth, sea lion pups do not know how to swim. In the wild they learn to explore the water on sandy beaches with slopes allowing them easy access and exit opportunities. Our deep pool is not so simple to climb out of, so over the past two weeks, our trainers have been teaching Talise how to swim and exit the pool comfortably - it truly is a learning process! We first introduced Talise to a small baby pool where she explored shallow waters and learned how to hold her breath. Once she was comfortable in the baby pool, we began doing swim lessons in our 6-foot deep holding pool. Here, she is working on mastering the art of maneuvering through the water while holding her breathe for longer periods of time building comfort in her aquatic environment. During these lessons, it has become quite clear just how much Talise loves the water! Her trust in our trainers has also become very apparent, as she prefers us in the water with her at all times. In working with her everyday our goal is to help build her strength and confidence in the water! In no time, Talise will be frolicking in our 18-foot deep pool with the other seals and sea lions! Just as the past 5 weeks have been full of new experiences for Talise, they have also been full of learning experiences for her mother Sonoma and the staff and trainers at Oceans of Fun. In the wild, it is not uncommon for first time mothers to be uncertain of how to care for their youngster; Sonoma was no exception. Learning proper mothering skills has not come naturally to Sonoma and trainers have had to step in to assist and help Sonoma develop nurturing skills. Our goals have not only included ensuring Talise's health, but also building Sonoma's skill set for success with future pups. It's an ongoing challenge but both Sonoma and Talise are getting the hang of it! Even Auntie Makaia has played a part in nurturing and caring for Talise, nursing the little pup in times of need! 24-hour care is all part of the responsibility we take so seriously in caring for these animals. As Talise grows stronger each day, we all smile knowing the role we are playing in her success!

Ocean Connections is a 501©3 non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring conservation awareness and public action for our world’s ocean through education.  Our “touch the heart, teach the mind” philosophy comes to life at each of locations through various opportunities to meet, feed, and learn about our animal ambassadors.  We are honored to provide forever homes for rescued marine mammals and ensure the well-being of the animals in our care.  Learn more about each of our locations below.   __________________________________________________________________   Hershey, PA Since 2009, Ocean Connections partnered with Hersheypark to provide educational and conservation-based marine mammal programming.  Immerse yourself in the world of marine mammals, animal care, and environmental protection during featured presentations and interactive programs. Programs Offered: Seal & Sea Lion Feeding and Photo Session: Offered after select Seal & Sea Lion Shows. Come poolside to give some tasty fish treats to one of our seals or sea lions or get a high-resolution family photo with one of our animals Flippered Friends & Family: Join our interactive VIP experience at Ocean Connections! Bring the whole family to visit our seals and sea lions. Learn all about the importance of these ambassadors and feed them before engaging in a private poolside training session with our seals or sea lions!  Job Shadow: Interested in a career working with marine mammals? Guests 13 years of age and older can come behind the scenes to shadow one of our animal care specialists! Learn how we provide exceptional care for our seals and sea lions, come poolside for a private training and husbandry session, and more!  For more information or to make a reservation for this program click here. Outreach & Digital Learning: Bring the magic of marine mammals right to your classroom! Offering Zoo to You programs and Digital Learning Opportunities, our education team can fully customize our curriculum to your needs.       __________________________________________________________________   Myrtle Beach, SC In 2023, Ocean Connections partnered with Pirates Voyage to provide the animal ambassador portion of the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show.  Meet the macaws, dogs, and sea lions that call Ocean Connections Myrtle Beach home through interactive and educational experiences. Programs Offered: Animal Encounter: Meet, feed, and train one of our sea lions.  Explore the adaptations macaws have to survive in the rainforest.  Discover how you can use the positive reinforcement training techniques we utilize with your own pets at home!  For more information, click here. Outreach & Digital Learning: Bring the magic of marine mammals right to your classroom! Offering Zoo to You programs and Digital Learning Opportunities, our education team can fully customize our curriculum to your needs.  Learn more by clicking here. __________________________________________________________________ Pigeon Forge, TN In 2023, Ocean Connections partnered with Pirates Voyage to provide the animal ambassador portion of the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show.  Meet the macaws, dogs, and sea lions that call Ocean Connections Pigeon Forge home through interactive and educational experiences. Programs Offered: Animal Encounter: Meet, feed, and train one of our sea lions.  Explore the adaptations macaws have to survive in the rainforest.  Discover how you can use the positive reinforcement training techniques we utilize with your own pets at home!  For more information, click here. Outreach & Digital Learning: Bring the magic of marine mammals right to your classroom! Offering Zoo to You programs and Digital Learning Opportunities, our education team can fully customize our curriculum to your needs.  Learn more by clicking here. __________________________________________________________________     Panama City Beach, FL  Programs Offered: Animal Encounter: Meet, feed, and train one of our sea lions.  Explore the adaptations macaws have to survive in the rainforest.  Discover how you can use the positive reinforcement training techniques we utilize with your own pets at home!  For more information, click here. Outreach & Digital Learning: Bring the magic of marine mammals right to your classroom! Offering Zoo to You programs and Digital Learning Opportunities, our education team can fully customize our curriculum to your needs.  Learn more by clicking here.  

It goes without saying that our two sea lion pups have grown in leaps and bounds this summer! Talise, now 5 months old, always seems to find something new to investigate. Colby, who is now over 1 year old, is continuing to progress in his formal training! These two pups have become excellent playmates for each other, often romping through the pool chasing after one another. These play behaviors are very important for growing pups as it helps them to learn about social relationships, how to survive in their environment all while increasing their strength and coordination. Though still nursing from her mother, over the past month Talise has become extremely interested in playing with fish. She enjoys taking them from the trainers, swimming around with them and tossing them about. Talise will continue to nurse from her mother until she is about 6 to 12 months of age, but playing with fish is the first step in weaning a sea lion pup. This summer Colby was introduced to shows where he has become more comfortable being around the sights and sounds of the crowd, music and microphone. He is progressing very nicely in learning basic behaviors such as to lie down, which we call “sleep”, and to go in a circle. The newest behaviors Colby is working on mastering are to jump and to gate, or take turns. Gating or taking turns, is very important and something that all of our animals learn. By teaching them to take turns, it allows the trainers to dedicate individual attention on each animal through out the day, which is essential to providing them with the best training possible. Our staff is thrilled in the progress that these two pups are making and we can’t wait to see what their next milestones will be!  

We have a new family member! Early on Wednesday morning, April 17, 2013 at 12:06am Sonoma, a 12 year old female California sea lion gave birth to her first pup at Oceans of Fun. The female pup came into the world at 12:06am weighing 17 pounds and measuring 72 cm in length. We haven't named our little arrival yet as she has been keeping us plenty busy, but we thought it important to share her story!  It is not uncommon for first time mothers to lack or be uncertain of the skills needed to successfully give birth, and nurse and nurture their first pup. In the wild, this is called "survival of the fittest" and commonly, these first-time pups don't survive. This week when Sonoma had a challenging first labor, her uncertainty towards nurturing quickly became apparent to the Oceans of Fun staff. One of the advantages of caring for these animals in zoological environments is the ability to intervene and assist the mother and pup in becoming successful. When Sonoma failed to nurse her pup, the Oceans of Fun trainers and veterinary teams swung into action, providing 24 hour care for the new arrival.   Monitoring, creating a successful pup formula, feeding and caring for newborns requires extensive training and time. Babies are always a great deal of work but it is clear that our dedication is paying off! This little pup required around the clock care and feedings every four hours. Trainers not only cared for the pup, but worked with Sonoma and Aunt Makaia to encourage bonding and pup nurturing. Although initially uncertain about her new endeavor, the past 24 hours have resulted in Sonoma's development as a mother. It's hard to determine why, but pup abandonment may be a result of inexperience, exhaustion, a difficult labor or bonding may just require time. Regardless, Sonoma has successfully learned and taken on the role of motherhood and today began nursing and protecting her pup - exactly what we want to see! The first few days of any life are critical. We are thrilled at the progress and success currently occurring between mother and pup. We're still under 24 hour care but the road ahead looks bright for our new family member!

Oceans of Fun has joined in partnership with the Chicago Zoological Society in studying the populations of South American sea lions and the endangered South American fur seals in the Punta San Juan (PSJ) Marine Protected Area.  Both facilities are committed to the development of veterinary field projects, conservation programs, and education programs. Established as a Guano reserve, PSJ has been a protected site for nearly 100 years. In 2010, a new network of marine protected areas was created to encompass PSJ and other sites in the Guano Reserve System.  These reserves are now managed by the protected areas service allowing for enhanced species and ecosystem protection.  The PSJ reserve located near San Juan de Marcona, protects key populations of many endangered and threatened species. The reserve is home to nearly half of the endangered Humboldt penguins in Peru and is a key rookery for the South American sea lion and endangered Peruvian fur seal, both of which have seen severe declines in their population sizes. This region continues to witness industrial growth, particularly the expansion of copper and iron mines, and it has now become more important than ever to monitor the health of the local pinniped population for disease and exposure to environmental contaminants. As a top predator, seals and sea lions provide indicators as to environmental conditions and the overall health of our oceans. For the past 5 years, the Chicago Zoological Society veterinary staff has developed multiple research projects with the Saint Louis Zoo and Peruvian colleagues at the Center for Environmental Sustainability at Cayetano Heredia University. The program  aims to evaluate the population health of the wildlife and to develop cohesive conservation strategies. Since 2007, they have evaluated and collected samples from over 700 penguins, 150 seabirds, and 130 pinnipeds. Projects are focused on disease and toxicant exposure, reproductive success, population stability, population genetics, and overall population resilience to external threats. Oceans of Fun recognized the value and significance in this unique conservation project and in 2012 joined in partnership to assist financially as well as physically in studying the Punta San Juan pinnipeds. This month Oceans of Fun president, Shelley Ballmann will join the Chicago Zoological Society as a team of 9 biologists and veterinarians travel to the Punta San Juan Reserve to conduct field projects to evaluate the health of the pinniped and penguin populations inhabiting the preserve. Our goal will be to collect and provide health assessments on numerous animals over a 12 day period of time gaining insight into the health of these critical populations. Follow along next week as Oceans of Fun president, Shelley Ballmann journals about her travels and provides updates on the pinniped conservation project of Punta San Juan!