WEM Attractions

09/13/2024

Join us to learn how painting can be a positive enrichment experience for our sea lions, penguins and reptiles. You can even purchase an art piece of your own!

Date & Time: Saturday, September 28th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location: Waterfall area at Marine Life

SEE YOU THERE!

09/05/2024

🎉🐧Happy 32rd Hatchday to our incredible Channel! 🐧🎉

Channel, our beloved African Blackfooted Penguin, has been a cherished member of the Marine Life family since 2008. Over the years, she’s graced us with her charm and has brought so much joy to everyone around her.

She’s a proud mom to two lovely daughters, Nina and Millie, and shares her life with her devoted mate, Lekkers. Channel's charm and spirit continue to brighten our days.

Let’s celebrate this special milestone and send Channel all our love and best wishes! 🥳🎊💖

08/23/2024

🌟 Special Friday Show Alert! 🌟
Join us this Friday at Marine Life for an unforgettable experience with our Amazing Sea Lions! 🌊✨

Dive into the fun and marvel at the incredible talents of our sea lions. It’s going to be a show you won’t want to miss!

📅 Date: Friday, August 23rd ⏰ Time: 2:00 p.m.
Bring your friends and family for a fantastic time!

08/19/2024

⭐️ This summer, treat your 6 to 12 year-olds to a memorable time at Kids Wonderland at Marine Life! For 3 hours, they'll engage in exciting activities such as meeting reptiles, discovering marine invertebrates, and enjoying a special sea lion session happening today and Thursday! ⭐️

While they're having fun, take advantage of some free time for yourself or get some back to school shopping done!

Slots are filling up fast, so make sure to register in advance!

Get your tickets at tickets.wem.ca

📅 Available times:

Today: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Thursday: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Don’t miss out on this adventure!

08/11/2024

Hey parents!

Bring your little adventurers to the West Edmonton Mall for the Play and Learn toddler program on August 14th from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. They'll have a blast meeting a Sea Star and a Sea Cucumber and enjoying fun, hands-on activities. It's a perfect blend of learning and play, just for your toddlers!

📅 Date: August 14th, 2024
🕥 Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
📍 Location: West Edmonton Mall

Join us for a morning of excitement and discovery! Buy your tickets now at
https://www.wem.ca/events/performances/june-play-and-learn?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwwuG1BhCnARIsAFWBUC0hhQUEdUVUdWgUSYwmwHBpMiOb0Ps21GCWdRQUk1wiApyZw5RLrfgaAm7EEALw_wcB

See you there! ✨

08/08/2024

🌟 Kids Wonderland at Marine Life: Drop Off Your Kids for an Adventure! 🌟

Parents, need a break? Drop off your kids (ages 6-12) at Marine Life for a fun-filled 3-hour program! They’ll explore behind the scenes, meet our amazing sea lions, and other fascinating animals. While they’re having the time of their lives, you can enjoy some shopping and relaxation!

📅 Dates: August 12, 15, 19, 22
🕐 Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
📍 Location: Marine Life, West Edmonton Mall

Buy your tickets today: https://www.wem.ca/events/performances/kids-wonderland-at-marine-life

08/05/2024

💦 Visit Marine Life Today to make a splash into your week and turn your Monday into Funday! 💦

Our sea lions have jumped at the chance to make your long weekend even better with a surprise show today! Grab your crew and come join us for some serious fun. Trust us, these sea lions know how to turn a regular Monday into a MONDAY-FUN-DAY! 😆

📅 August 5th, 2024 @ 2:00 p.m.

Be sure to grab your tickets early! Our Ticket Booth opens at 11:00 a.m. to purchase tickets for the show you will not want to miss!

08/02/2024

🐧❓Guess the Names of Our Penguin Sisters on National Sisters Day! ❓🐧

We have a fun guessing game for you today. Can you guess the names of these two adorable African Penguin sisters pictured below? Hint: They are some of our most playful residents here at Marine Life, West Edmonton Mall!

React to the Post to Cast your Vote:
👍 Tweeblik and Bam Bam
😆 Molly and Polly
😮 Nina and Millie
❤ Hope and Salty

While you're guessing, let us share some important info about our African Penguins. These amazing birds are part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a cooperative breeding program that helps ensure the survival of endangered species. Through the SSP, we work with other zoos and aquariums to maintain healthy, genetically diverse populations under human care, which is critical for their long-term conservation.

Want to get even closer to these charming birds? Book our Penguin Meet and Greet program! This unique experience allows you to learn more about African Penguins, get up close with them, and even snap a photo or two. It's an unforgettable way to connect with these fascinating creatures and learn about the efforts being made to protect them.

So, what do you think their names are? We'll reveal the answer soon. 🐧❤️

07/30/2024

🌟 August Play and Learn: Sea Star & Sea Cucumber Special! 🌟

This month's Play and Learn on August 14th at Marine Life, West Edmonton Mall, features a fascinating exploration of sea stars and sea cucumbers! From 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., kids aged 2-5 will enjoy interactive activities, storytime, and a close-up look at these unique sea creatures. It's a fantastic opportunity for your little ones to discover the wonders of marine life!

📅 Date: August 14th, 2024
🕙 Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
📍 Location: Marine Life, West Edmonton Mall

Secure your spot today: https://www.wem.ca/events/performances/june-play-and-learn

DOUBLE FEATURE- SEA STARS AND SEA CUCUMBERS Join us on the second Wednesday of each month from 10:30-11:15 A.M. We'll be introducing a new animal friend for a fun, interactive program at Marine Life! Meet and touch one of our animals, and learn all about them through activities, crafts, and stories....

07/28/2024

🌍✨ Happy World Conservation Day! ✨🌍

At Marine Life, West Edmonton Mall, our African penguins are part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), playing a crucial role in conservation. These amazing birds are critically endangered due to habitat loss, overfishing, and climate change. By visiting Sea Life Caverns, your contributions support the care of our animals and our conservation efforts.

Here are a few ways you can help protect African penguins and other endangered species:

🐧 Reduce plastic use: Minimize single-use plastics to keep oceans cleaner and safer for marine life.

🐧 Support sustainable seafood: Choose seafood from sustainable sources to reduce overfishing and protect the penguins' food supply.

🐧 Contribute to conservation organizations: Support groups dedicated to wildlife conservation and habitat restoration such as SANCCOB who work to rehabilitate sick and injured Sea Birds in South Africa.

🐧 Spread awareness: Educate others about the plight of endangered species and the importance of conservation efforts.

Want to get even closer to these fascinating creatures? Check out our Penguin Meet and Greet programs! You’ll have the unique opportunity to learn more about our penguins, their behaviors, and the conservation work we’re doing to protect them.

Join us today in celebrating World Conservation Day and make a difference!

🐧❤️

07/27/2024

⭐Zookeeper Appreciation Week Spotlight ⭐

Meet Megan, Marine Life's Duty Manager!

🌟What inspired you to become a Zookeeper?
"I grew up having a large freshwater aquarium in my house that I always loved. After I graduated with my degree, I found that I wanted to do something that went along with my love for animals and genetics. Cue Marine Life! I found a position with the sea lion and penguin team, and quickly realized my love for aquatics, life support systems, and all things saltwater!"

🌊What is your favorite Animal to Work With?
"Corals. I love aquatic invertebrates! They can be some of the most overlooked animals in the ocean because they look like plants but they are vital to our oceans and their health. They provide structure, homes, food, protection, and so much more to so many aquatic animals. They're also extremely important for humans! They are such interesting animals with some really awesome adaptations that allow them to live in some very extreme environments. I can't get enough!"

💕Share a Memorable Moment you've had while Working as a Zookeeper:
"There are so, so many, but some of my favorite moments always involve doing presentations about some of the species we house. Seeing guests so interested in the animals and how they can help their wild counterparts is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. I love interacting with people while telling them stories and fun facts about the animals I've spent over a decade working with!"

♻Conservation Tip:
"Recycling is a huge one! Our oceans are filled with plastics and garbage that was put there by us. By reducing, reusing, recycling, and rethinking our choices, we can directly impact our environment in a really meaningful way. Something so simple, and it really goes a long way!"

07/25/2024

🌟 Zookeeper Appreciation Week Spotlight 🌟

Meet another one of our incredible animal care staff!

⭐What inspired you to become a zookeeper:
"I saw a live penguin when I was young and instantly fell in love with them. That moment sparked my passion for animals and set me on the path to becoming a zookeeper."

🦎Favourite animal to work with:
"Fire skinks are my favorite because they are so unique and active. Their vibrant colors and playful nature make every day exciting."

💕Memorable moment:
"One of my most memorable moments was making enrichment for our animals. Pictured above is an enrichment activity I created for Juno, the ball python, which was both fun and rewarding to see her enjoy."

♻Conservation Tip:
"Conserving water is crucial! You can make a big difference by turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and taking shorter showers."

Stay tuned as we highlight more of our dedicated team members throughout the week! 💙

07/24/2024

⭐Zookeeper Appreciation Week Spotlight ⭐

Meet Robin, one of our amazing animal care staff!

🌟What inspired you to become a Zookeeper?
"My love of animals made me gravitate towards volunteering with animals and getting any job I could with them. That gave me enough experience to apply for more competitive positions until I was hired as a full-time keeper, which was a dream of mine since getting involved in the field. The thing that really captivated my attention, though, was animal training; I fell in love with it immediately when I was introduced and have loved it ever since."

🌊What is your favorite Animal to Work With?
"Sea lions! They are so smart, and it's easy to have fun together. They are energetic, athletic, and they go in the water and on the land. It's a really special thing to have a relationship with them."

💕Share a Memorable Moment you've had while Working as a Zookeeper:
I remember the first time I learned how to play with a dolphin. Nobody had shown me how, and I was very new to working with them and had no idea how to engage her. I had to figure out not only what she liked, but how to tell if she liked something—it was like learning a new language. It was challenging, but getting through it not only helped me communicate with an animal that doesn't have facial expressions, it helped me connect with her and animals I worked with after her."

♻Conservation Tip:
"Reducing plastic is a relatively easy way to make a big difference. Using reusable water bottles and shopping bags helps so many animals all around the world."

Stay tuned as we highlight more of our dedicated team members throughout the week!

07/22/2024

🎉🐢Shellabration Time!🐢🎉

It's a shellabration at Marine Life today as Tic and Bo, our beloved three-toed box turtles, turn 26! These two slow and steady turtles have charmed their way into our hearts with their gentle demeanor and love for gourmet salads. 🥗🍓

To mark this special occasion, we're throwing a turtle-tastic party complete with all their favorite treats. Strawberries? Check. Fresh basking rocks? Check. Plenty of slow and steady fun? Double check!

At 26 years young, Tic and Bo are halfway to becoming centenarian shell-ebrities. Who knew aging could look so good under a shell? Their secret to a long and happy life: a balanced diet, a spacious habitat, and lots of care!

Here's to 26 amazing years and many more to come. Join us in wishing these two a very happy birthday by dropping your favorite turtle emojis in the comments below.

Let's make this day shell-tastic! 🎂🐢

07/17/2024

🌊🌞Summer Splash: Extra Sea Lion Show! 🌞🌊

🍦 Are you melting faster than an ice cream cone in July?

We've got the perfect solution! This Friday at 2:00 p.m., escape the heat and dive into some cool fun at Marine Life WEM with an extra special Sea Lion Show! Our Sea Lions have been escaping the heat at Sea Lion's Rock.

Expect splashes, giggles, and plenty of "oohs" and "aahs"!

So leave the popsicles at home, and head over for an afternoon of fun that'll leave you refreshed and smiling. It's the best way to chill out without turning into a puddle!

See you there! And remember, our sea lions always bring the cool. 😎

07/16/2024

🐍🌊 Happy World Snake Day! 🌊🐍

Today, we celebrate these fascinating creatures that play crucial roles in our ecosystems. Snakes are not only diverse in species but also vital for maintaining balanced food webs and controlling rodent populations.

Enrichment for Snakes:

🍃 Providing enrichment is crucial for the well-being of pet snakes. This includes varied habitats, appropriate hides, and stimulation through natural behaviors like climbing and exploring. Remember, a happy snake is a healthy snake!

Responsible Pet Ownership:
🏡 Owning a snake comes with responsibilities. Research their specific needs, ensure proper habitat conditions, and commit to regular veterinary care. Responsible ownership helps ensure the well-being of your pet and contributes to conservation efforts worldwide.

Let's celebrate these magnificent reptiles responsibly and learn more about their unique adaptations and roles in our world! 🌎💙

07/14/2024

🦈 Dive into Shark Awareness Day at Marine Life! 🦈

While shark encounters capture attention, statistically, the likelihood of encountering a shark in the ocean is incredibly low compared to other everyday risks, like falling coconuts. Sharks play a vital role in marine ecosystems and typically avoid interactions with humans. Let's celebrate their importance and dispel myths about these misunderstood creatures!

Join us on July 14th as we celebrate the incredible world of sharks. These fascinating creatures play a vital role in maintaining the health of our oceans. Learn about their unique adaptations, conservation efforts, and how you can help protect them.

Explore our exhibits and discover the importance of sharks in marine ecosystems. Let's raise awareness and appreciation for these amazing animals together!

Visit us at Marine Life to deepen your knowledge and show your support for shark conservation!

07/12/2024

🌊 Celebrate National Eat Your Jello Day with Marine Life! 🌊

Did you know our playful California sea lions enjoy a special treat—gelatin? This fun snack isn't just tasty; it plays a crucial role in their hydration and health. Gelatin is mostly water, which helps keep our sea lions hydrated. Additionally, it's packed with essential nutrients like proteins and amino acids that support their joint health and overall well-being.

Join us in celebrating on July 12th by learning more about our sea lions' unique diets and the benefits of gelatin at Kid's Wonderland. It's a perfect way to combine fun and nutrition for these amazing marine animals!

07/11/2024

🌎Happy World Population Day!🌎

Today, let's focus on how human activities impact both our marine friends and local wildlife as our global population continues to grow.

Did you know that light pollution can severely impact green sea turtles?

Studies show that up to 60% of hatchlings can be disoriented by artificial lighting, leading them away from the ocean and toward danger. This misdirection can result in dehydration, predation, and they may never reach the ocean they call home.

In Edmonton, light pollution affects various local wildlife, including birds. Artificial lighting can disrupt migratory patterns, attract birds to dangerous urban areas, and interfere with their natural behaviors.

How Can the Population in Alberta Help? Residents of Alberta can take several steps to help reduce light pollution and protect wildlife:

💡Install Wildlife-Friendly Lighting: Use fixtures that direct light downward and use bulbs with wavelengths less likely to attract or disorient wildlife.
💡Turn Off Unnecessary Lights: Reduce outdoor lighting and turn off lights when not in use, especially during migration seasons.
💡Use Motion Sensors: These can limit the amount of time lights are on and reduce overall light pollution.
💡Advocate for Light Pollution Ordinances: Support local policies that aim to reduce light pollution in urban areas.

Let's raise awareness and work together to protect our wildlife.

To learn more about how you can reduce light pollution visit this link from UCLA's Institute of Environment and Sustainability: https://www.ioes.ucla.edu/article/how-to-dim-the-consequences-of-global-light-pollution/

07/07/2024

🌊Kids Wonderland At Marine Life 🌊

Drop off your kids and let them embark on a magical three-hour journey while you enjoy a peaceful break. Reserve their spot today: https://www.wem.ca/events/performances/kids-wonderland-at-marine-life

Treat your kids aged 6-12 to an extraordinary adventure this summer! Our Kids Wonderland program offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at Marine Life, featuring up-close interactions with sea lions and a host of other fascinating marine creatures.

📅 Event Dates: July 11, 12 and August 12, 15, 16, 19, 22, 23
🕐 Event Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
📍 Venue: Marine Life, West Edmonton Mall

07/02/2024

🐍Hey parents! Bring your little adventurers to the West Edmonton Mall for the Play and Learn toddler program on July 10th from 10:30 to 11:15 AM. They'll have a blast meeting a friendly corn snake and enjoying fun, hands-on activities. It's a perfect blend of learning and play, just for your toddlers! 🐍

📅 Date: July 10th
🕥 Time: 10:30 - 11:15 AM
📍 Location: West Edmonton Mall

Join us for a morning of excitement and discovery! Buy your tickets now at https://www.wem.ca/events/performances/july-life-play-and-learn

See you there! 🎈✨

07/01/2024

Celebrate with us on Canada Day! 🍁

Explore Marine Life Cavern and meet the amazing animals that call Canada home. Keep an eye out for our Canada flags showcasing our incredible Canadian animals – there's so much to discover and appreciate about our wildlife. Come spend the day with us, learning about the beauty of marine life in the Great White North. See you there! 🐸🐢❤️

06/30/2024

Calling all young explorers aged 6-12! Join us for an exhilarating journey at our Kids Wonderland program, happening from July 4th to August 23rd. Your kids will enjoy a unique three-hour experience from 1 pm to 4 pm on select days, where thye now get to see our California Sea Lion's and other incredible creatures behind the scenes.

📅 Available Dates: July 4, 5, 8, 11, 12 and August 12, 15, 16, 19, 22, 23
🕐 Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
📍 Location: Marine Life, West Edmonton Mall

Let your kids embark on an unforgettable afternoon while you relax and unwind. Reserve their spot today: https://wem.ca/events/performances/kids-wonderland-at-marine-life

06/24/2024

🎉 Go Edmonton Oilers! Pablo the Sea Lion is Ready for Game 7! 🎉

Get ready to cheer on our Edmonton Oilers as they head into Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Playoff! No one is more excited than Pablo, our Male California Sea Lion! 🏒🥅

Pablo has been practicing his flipper claps and barks, and he's ready to show his support. He's got his game face on! Join Pablo and the rest of the WEM Marine Life team in rooting for our boys on the ice!

Let’s make some noise and show our Oilers that they've got fans both above and below the water! 📣🌊

Let's win this! 🏆

06/23/2024

🌟 Step into Kids Wonderland at Marine Life! 🌟

Give your children aged 6-12 an unforgettable experience at our Kids Wonderland program, running on dates between July 4th and August 23rd! This three-hour adventure, from 1 pm to 4 pm on select dates, offers a behind-the-scenes look at Marine Life, including exciting encounters with sea lions and other amazing animals.

📅 Dates: July 4, 5, 8, 11, 12 and August 12, 15, 16, 19, 22, 23
🕐 Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
📍 Location: Marine Life, West Edmonton Mall

Drop off your kids for a fun-filled afternoon while you enjoy some much-needed relaxation. Book your spot now: https://www.wem.ca/events/performances/kids-wonderland-at-marine-life

06/23/2024

If you guessed these two amazing creatures well done!

🐸White Tree Frog who are known for their charming faces and bright green color. They are native to the rainforests of Australia and New Guinea. White Tree Frogs are excellent indicators of environmental health!🐸

🌴Solomon Island Skink 🌴 this unique reptile is native to the Solomon Islands' rainforests. With their strong, grasping tails, these skinks are adept climbers, spending most of their time in the forest canopy!

🌿💚Rainforests are essential for the health of our planet. They produce oxygen, store carbon, and provide habitat for countless species.
Join us in celebrating World Rainforest Day by learning more about these amazing creatures and supporting efforts to conserve their natural habitats. Together, we can make a difference!🌿💚

06/22/2024

🌿🌎Happy World Rainforest Day from Marine Life WEM!🌎🌿

Today, we are celebrating the beauty and diversity of the rainforest ecosystem. We have two special rainforest animals here at Marine Life that we can't wait to share with you. Can you guess who they are? Stay tuned for the big reveal! 🌿🐾🌳

06/16/2024

🎉Celebrating a truly special milestone with our beloved Sea Lion, Clara! 🎉

Born at Blackpool Zoo on June 16th, 1994, Clara joined us at the West Edmonton Mall in 2004 when she was just 10 years old. Clara is not just a star in her own right; she’s also sister to Pablo, and Aunt to our pup Wembley.

Reaching 30 years of age is like being a centenarian in sea lion years—she’s a legend! She’s been receiving birthday wishes from trainers past and present and it seems that Clara makes every moment with her special. Clara’s charm and playful spirit have brought endless joy to everyone who meets her.

Today, we’re not just celebrating a birthday; we’re celebrating a lifetime of memories, laughs, and love. Clara’s journey to 30 is an incredible achievement for a California Sea Lion, and it is a testament to her resilience and the exceptional care she receives from her dedicated trainers each and everyday. 🥳

Join us in sending Clara all the love, virtual belly rubs, and fishy treats she deserves on this remarkable day. Here’s to many more years of splashes, smiles, and unforgettable moments with our darling Clara! 🎂

Stay tuned for some of Clara's celebrations!

06/15/2024

Wishing a very Happy Birthday to our beloved Sea Lion, Clara!

Our Sweet girl is turning 30 tomorrow, but we couldn't wait to start the celebrations early. She's been receiving so many birthday wishes from her trainers, past and present. Join us in sending Clara some love on her special day!!

06/14/2024

Join us in wishing Pablo a very happy birthday!