Exhibit / Steller’s Bay
Steller's bay
Come nose to snout with Steller sea lions at Steller’s Bay, an exhibit that spotlights these majestic and mysterious creatures, only at Vancouver Aquarium.
Overview
Get up close
Transported to a fishing village on Canada’s west coast, you will delight as you experience sea lions basking brilliantly in the sun and hear them roaring in spectacular chorus. Below the surface stands huge underwater viewing windows where visitors will be immersed in a sea lion’s world, getting up-close as the dynamic animals glide through the water with incredible power and agility.
What you'll see
Research in action
This spectacular exhibit prominently features an active research station, bringing our behind-the-scenes research to the forefront and allowing visitors to deep dive into the critical role these animals play in conserving their counterparts in the wild.
What you'll see
Trusting relationships
Building on a strong, trusting relationship with the Aquarium’s marine mammal trainers, the Steller sea lions living at the Aquarium have become excellent research assistants. In a collaborative effort, the trainers and sea lions are working with University of British Columbia scientists to understand the mysterious disappearance of 80 per cent of the wild Steller sea lion population
What you'll see
Animal care
Visitors can observe the trainers as they feed and care for these animals, lead enrichment exercises, and collect valuable metabolic information, such as weight, heart rate, and breathing rate; these readings contribute to ongoing studies.
What you'll see
Animal care
Visitors can observe the trainers as they feed and care for these animals, lead enrichment exercises, and collect valuable metabolic information, such as weight, heart rate, and breathing rate; these readings contribute to ongoing studies.
What you'll see
Research in action
This spectacular exhibit prominently features an active research station, bringing our behind-the-scenes research to the forefront and allowing visitors to deep dive into the critical role these animals play in conserving their counterparts in the wild.
Videos
How We Help
Research in action
In a collaborative effort, the trainers and sea lions are working with University of British Columbia scientists to understand the mysterious disappearance of 80 per cent of the wild Steller sea lion population. Visitors can observe the trainers as they feed and care for these animals, lead enrichment exercises, and collect valuable metabolic information, such as weight, heart rate, and breathing rate; these readings contribute to ongoing studies.
01
Mystery of the disappearing steller sea lions
When the scientific community noticed the significant Steller sea lion population decline, UBC scientist Dr. Andrew Trites connected with then-president of the Vancouver Aquarium Murray Newman to explore how both organizations could collaborate and find a solution to this mystery. Decades later, the research continues.
02
Incredible learning opportunities
The Aquarium’s interpreters and trainers have come together to offer special Steller sea lion programs, introducing guests to these intriguing animals, demonstrating the compelling relationship between trainers and the animals, and guiding them though leading-edge conservation research.