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Learn about Whales and Help Save a Life

Check out our new whale behavior visual guide! Dive in to discover the “why” behind the different behaviors you might see.

Learn fun facts about these gentle giants, what conservation efforts are helping to protect them, ways you can be a whale champion and more.

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humpback whale tail
elephant seal pup Juanita

Juanita

Northern Elephant Seal
Mirounga angustirostris

Book a Tour to Meet Our Patients

Northern elephant seal pup Juanita was so young at her time of rescue that she still had her black coat of fur. Elephant seal pups shed this dark fur once they’ve weaned from their mother, so our trained responders knew she was too young to be on her own.

Without nutrition from her mother’s milk or any survival skills, Juanita had little to no chance of survival in the wild.

Once at the Center, Juanita was very shy. She did not want to eat or swim when the pool was crowded with other young patients.

After many months of coaxing by our dedicated animal care volunteers, Juanita gained confidence and learned how to eat whole fish and compete with other animals. She was released back to her ocean home with the skill set she needed to survive in the wild.

Adopt Juanita

Age at Admit
Pup
Sex
Female
Rescue Location
Waddell Creek Beach (Middle) - Davenport, Santa Cruz
Diagnosis
Malnutrition, Maternal separation
Admitted
01/22/2018
Status
Released
Release Date
06/22/2018
Release Location
Chimney Rock - Point Reyes National Seashore

Yes, I want to save a life!

Yes, I want to save a life!

You’ll be giving sick and injured animals the best possible care at the Center’s state-of-the-art hospital. With your gift today, you are giving a patient a second chance at life in the wild.

  • $35 You'll buy food for a hungry animal
  • $45 You'll provide life-saving medical care
  • $65 You'll make second chances possible

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