The Seattle Aquarium is mourning the loss of Barney, the beloved 39-year-old harbor seal. Barney was roughly the equivalent of a 100-year-old human—and one of the oldest known harbor seals in human care.
Director of Animal Health Dr. Caitlin Hadfield and members of our veterinary and animal care teams had been working closely with Barney for years, making sure he was as happy and comfortable as possible. Just like many elderly humans, he developed some age-related health issues over time but overall had been doing well.
In recent weeks, however, he showed an acute decline. Based on his prognosis and how he was feeling—his quality of life—the team made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize him on March 14. “We know that many in the community will join the Aquarium’s staff and volunteers in mourning this loss. Barney will be remembered and missed,” says Aquarium President and CEO Bob Davidson.
In 1985, Barney was the first harbor seal to be born here at the Aquarium. He shaped many caregivers over his long life and was cherished by all, particularly for his easygoing and inquisitive nature. “I knew Barney for 19 years and my appreciation of him only grew as time passed,” comments Animal Care Specialist Cheryl Becker. Dr. Caitlin Hadfield, who had worked with Barney since joining the Aquarium in 2017, notes, “Barney had great trust in his human caregivers and his home. He had a number of health concerns over the last few years and we learned a lot from each other. I’m proud of the care the animal care staff provided, and that we were able to help ensure that his end of life was peaceful.”
Barney will be remembered as a wonderful, one-of-a-kind ambassador for the Seattle Aquarium. “He inspired a stronger curiosity about the ocean in millions of people—a curiosity that inspired action for the conservation of our marine environment,” says Bob Davidson.
Barney was a beloved icon here at the Aquarium and, over his nearly 40 years, touched the hearts of countless visitors, volunteers and staff. Supervisor of Birds and Mammals Mariko Bushcamp says, “Barney and I were the same age and I knew him for nearly half my life.” She speaks for all of us when she adds, “You’ll leave a big hole – but thank you for all the memories, Barn.”
About the Seattle Aquarium:
Founded in 1977, the Seattle Aquarium is a marine conservation organization working to regenerate the health of Earth’s one ocean. We work among global leaders to advance animal wellbeing, marine and ecosystem science, public policy, field conservation, education, and species recovery programs that benefit the ocean. Help support the Aquarium’s mission of Inspiring Conservation of Our Marine Environment.
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