For the last 50 years, scientists have used ultrasonic transmitters, known as pingers, to study the behavior of marine organisms. They’ve been used on many species including sharks and rays, bony fishes and invertebrates – and have become an important tool in the discovery of the movements and life history of these species. But the big mystery has always been, can marine mammals hear these signals?

The playful Sea Otter seems to be without a care in the world – but unfortunately this isn’t true. Since 2003, populations of the sunny sea-creatures have dropped considerably. Scientists are rightly concerned because Sea Otters serve as signposts of the sea - if they’re unable to thrive, their plight signals that there are significant problems with the overall health of the coastal ecosystem.

SeaWorld San Diego recently took in a rescued California sea otter pup that was found stranded a few months ago on a beach about five hours north of the marine-life park. The female pup was somehow separated from her mother and was suffering from a viral infection. Staff at the Monterey Bay Aquarium rescued her, stabilized her and then sent her to us for further care and a long-term home.

SeaWorld San Diego recently participated in the celebration of Sea Otter Awareness Week, to help educate the public about a species threatened by oil spills, entanglement in fishing nets and disease.

Ever heard of a false killer whale? Not many people have, so let's dive in and learn about this mysterious whale species.

Like most of the rest of the country, Central Florida is experiencing some cold temperatures this week. From killer whales to otters, some marine animals love the cold weather. However, some don't! How do our animal trainers make sure that all the animals are comfortable when the temps drop? Watch this interview with SeaWorld Curator, Kelly Flaherty Clark, and find out how they do it.

On Sept. 2 SeaWorld San Antonio’s Animal Rescue Team rescued a baby Atlantic bottlenose dolphin calf outside of Rockport, Texas. The 4-to-6-month-old female calf, which had sustained wounds to its tail fluke and dorsal fin and was entangled in loose fishing line, was treated locally by SeaWorld veterinarians and immediately released to rejoin its nearby mother.

Two orphaned California sea otters, rescued as pups nearly three years ago, continue to thrive at SeaWorld San Diego. Abby arrived at SeaWorld in July 2007 and Ellie was brought to the park in November 2007. Both pups were only days old when abandoned by their mothers along the coast in Northern California.