New England Aquarium sea lions stay cool with ice enrichment amid summer heat

BOSTON, MASS. (Aug. 10, 2026) – As temperatures in Boston hit 90 degrees, the New England Aquarium is helping its resident sea lions stay cool and have fun with special enrichment activities.

**PHOTOS AND VIDEO AVIALABLE HERE WITH CREDIT TO NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM**

The Aquarium’s five California sea lions live in the open-air New Balance Foundation Marine Mammal Center. On hot summer days, the animals have the opportunity to engage in enrichment using ice. Trainers freeze fish and gelatin inside ice blocks, which encourages the animals to investigate and play with the ice to cool off.

“Providing the New England Aquarium’s sea lions and seals with a variety of training and enrichment opportunities throughout the day is positive and stimulating, encouraging them to display naturalistic foraging and playful behaviors,” said Kristen McMahon, the New England Aquarium’s Curator of Pinnipeds and Penguins.

Staff at the Aquarium monitor the sea lions’ exhibit around the clock and make adjustments as necessary. The systems in place include heat exchangers, which keep the animals’ water temperature between the target range of 58-63 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The Marine Mammal Center also has air conditioned behind-the-scenes space for the animals to access.

The New England Aquarium provides care to about 9,000 animals with a dedicated team of more than 70 Animal Care staffers, including a full-time veterinary team, who ensure the essential health and well-being of those who call the Aquarium home.

MEDIA CONTACT: Pam Bechtold Snyder—psnyder@neaq.org