How the Aquarium of the Pacific scrambled to save hundreds of sea creatures after 2 smuggling busts
Summary
The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California, cared for nearly 1,000 sea creatures confiscated in two illegal wildlife smuggling operations this summer. The animals were rescued from traffickers and carefully treated and acclimated at the aquarium to give them a safe place to live.Key Facts
- Two smuggling busts this summer led to nearly 1,000 confiscated marine animals arriving at the Aquarium of the Pacific.
- The first operation in June involved about 2,000 animals, including fish, sharks, and invertebrates seized from a box truck.
- Aquarium staff worked overnight to move and care for 500 animals from the first bust, performing water tests and careful acclimation.
- About 25% of the animals died shortly after arriving due to the stress of transport and adjustment.
- A second operation in late July brought another 300 marine animals to the aquarium after a federal wildlife center stay.
- The Aquarium of the Pacific is a founding member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Wildlife Confiscations Network, which helps place seized animals in accredited facilities.
- Since joining the network in 2023, the aquarium has cared for more than 3,300 trafficked animals, including reptiles, corals, and axolotls.
- Southern California is a major entry point for illegally trafficked wildlife coming mostly from Asian countries.
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