Animals Found Sick and Dying at New Jersey Aquarium

SeaQuest, an aquarium located in the Woodbridge Center mall in New Jersey, has been placed on indefinite probation due to repeated violations of wildlife regulations, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). The probation status, initially set in September 2023, restricts the aquarium from acquiring new animals or introducing new public interactions with its existing wildlife.

Originally, the probation was expected to end on September 27, 2024, but a June letter from the NJDEP extended the probation indefinitely, citing the aquarium’s failure to address several critical issues. These violations range from inadequate veterinary care and poorly constructed animal enclosures to instances of animal aggression, injury, and death. State officials noted that the aquarium’s two Asian water monitors were frequently injured due to fights stemming from overcrowded conditions, ultimately leading to the euthanasia of both lizards. Similarly, giant day geckos housed in undersized enclosures suffered severe injuries, with some even transferred to a pet store in poor condition.

The NJDEP also highlighted concerns over the aquarium’s general animal care practices. The state reported chronic problems such as shell rot in turtles, stress-induced feather plucking in birds, and improper environmental conditions for reptiles. Security lapses, including the escape of a potentially dangerous Asian small-clawed otter and unauthorized animal interactions, further compounded the aquarium’s regulatory troubles.

SeaQuest has faced significant scrutiny not only in New Jersey but across the country. The company, which operates six other locations, has a history of regulatory violations, failed inspections, and complaints about animal mistreatment. Despite paying a $2,500 fine, SeaQuest has not provided adequate responses to the NJDEP’s demands for better animal care and stricter adherence to regulations.

The future of the SeaQuest Woodbridge location remains uncertain as it continues to operate under close watch, with the possibility of losing its permits and having its animals confiscated if corrective actions are not taken.

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Related Content:

• Miami Seaquarium Faces Uncertain Future Amid Eviction Threat
• SeaQuest CEO Steps Down Amid Mounting Controversy
• Animal Welfare Concerns Mount at SeaQuest Woodbridge in New Jersey
• SeaQuest Littleton Closing After Years of Animal Welfare Concerns

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