Times of San Diego reported that two rescued Alaskan ringed seals are soon making their debuts at SeaWorld San Diego within the Wild Arctic facility. The animals were transferred to SeaWorld San Diego from the Alaska SeaLife Center after being officially deemed non-releasable by the organization.
Mavsaq is one of the incoming animals, having been discovered outside its natural habitat in December 2025. Taku is the second seal arriving at the park, having been found abandoned and lethargic in 2018. Both individual animals belong to a species classified as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.
SeaWorld San Diego also houses another ringed seal with a long history at the facility. Natchek was rescued as a three-month-old pup in July 1996 and has remained at the park since that time.
Discussing the arrival of the two new seals into the park's habitat, Eric Otjen told Times of San Diego, "We are glad to partner with Alaska Sea Life Center to provide a home for these ringed seals at Wild Arctic." Providing further comment on how the animals are settling into their new environment, Eric Otjen told Times of San Diego, "We are very pleased with their adjustment so far." The transfer highlights ongoing efforts by both facilities to care for marine animals that require permanent non-releasable housing.
