The iconic Birch Aquarium at Scripps is about to undergo a major transformation. It will breathe new life into its long-standing Hall of Fishes exhibit, which will soon make way for the brand-new Living Seas exhibition. This thrilling journey through the Pacific Ocean is designed to foster ocean love and conservation. As Birch Aquarium revealed, this extensive renovation marks the most substantial capital investment since its establishment in 1992.
In a statement brimming with anticipation, Executive Director Harry Helling shared, as per Birch Aquarium, "Generations of San Diegans have been inspired by our Hall of Fishes and I can't wait to introduce future generations to Living Seas, which has been in the works for years," underscoring the exhibition's significance and the emotional connection it fosters with the local community which very much caused excitement with the people, but also invites a broader global audience to discover the marvels of the underwater world. Birch Aquarium invites visitors to share their memories of the Hall of Fishes, allowing patrons to become part of its storied history before renovations kick off on September 29.
The Living Seas experience promises to be intimate and inspiring with high-tech features like expanded viewing windows and next-generation displays, showcasing the aquatic realms from the cooler northern Pacific waters to vibrant tropical ecosystems. Visitors can expect an impressive array of habitats, including a dedicated space for a Giant Pacific Octopus and immersive projections that bring the Pacific coastline's biodiversity to life. First, peeking at the aquarium's plans shows a deliberate spotlight on engaging education and interactive learning about the ocean's wonders, per Birch Aquarium's press release.
With preparations in full swing, Jenn Nero, Senior Director of Animal Care and Conservation, highlighted the logistical challenges, as per Birch Aquarium, "Preparing for a move with nearly 4,000 animals in the Hall of Fishes is a major undertaking." Explaining the meticulous planning involved to cater to each species' specific needs and ensuring their well-being, they're taking into account the temperature, lighting, and even social behaviors that could potentially stress the animals during the move, which calls for precision and care. Starting September 3, the team will relocate resident marine life, including fan favorites like the Giant Pacific Octopus and a rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle, to safe, temporary locations. The aquarium is set to close for a brief stint from September 30 to October 3 to gear up for the project's commencement.
Despite the upcoming closure for renovation, Birch Aquarium promises an array of exhibits and experiences for guests, such as the introduction of Embodied Pacific: Ocean Unseen, an innovative crossover of ocean science and art installation. This exhibit is part of a larger Getty initiative called PST ART: Art and Science Collide, distributing discoveries across six locations, aiming to deepen the public's understanding of the ocean's mysteries through more than just the science—it's about how we engage with and interpret these unseen aspects of the ocean. Birch Aquarium confidently assures that even with Living Seas under construction, slated to be completed by summer 2025, there will still be a full roster of attractions, including their beloved Little Blue Penguins, Weedy Seadragons, Leopard Sharks, and a series of exciting guest experiences yet to be announced—which certainly seems to suggest the aquarium will have no shortage of wonders to showcase in the interim.
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