Sea Life counts more than 30,000 aquatic creatures in annual stocktake
More than 30,000 creatures were involved in the count including terrapins, gentoo penguins and sea otters.
Aquarists armed with their measuring tapes and clipboards counted more than 30,000 creatures at Sea Life aquariums across the UK as they undertook their annual stocktake.
The marine creatures were counted, weighed and measured across 11 centres including gentoo penguins at Sea Life London, green sea turtles at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham and seals at Sea Life Weymouth.
The team of aquarists donned wetsuits to examine them, conduct health checks and record any new arrivals, while also undertaking a winter clean of the aquariums’ exhibits.
At more than 170 kilograms, the heaviest creature to be weighed was Molokai, Birmingham’s resident green sea turtle, who also had his shell cleaned.
The UK’s first rescued Alaskan sea otters, Ozzy and Ola, were also weighed in Birmingham, measuring 27.5 and 22.8 kilograms respectively.
Weymouth’s Tyne the seal was the second most weighty at around 70kg – but he is expected to gain an additional 15 kilograms this winter to keep him warm.
Some 350 jellyfish were counted in London, alongside a colony of gentoo penguins and rescued terrapins, whose shells measured 30cm on average.
“Count and Clean is one of our most cherished and important activities at Sea Life London Aquarium,” said general manager Catherine Pritchard.
“It’s our annual opportunity to take stock of all the new arrivals we’ve welcomed over the past year.
“This event allows us to maintain the highest standards of care for our marine life and provides a wonderful chance for our team to connect with each creature.”
Amy Langham, general manager at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham, added: “This dedicated time allows us to meticulously deep clean the habitats and ensure a pristine and healthy environment for all our creatures.
“It’s a labour of love that ensures everyone is ready for a splash-tastic New Year!”
The annual event allows Sea Life centres in the UK to take part in international breeding programmes, alongside the other Sea Life centres around the world.
