SeaQuest Woodbridge Aquarium Faces Permit Revocation Amid Allegations of Animal Abuse
Woodbridge, NJ – Controversial aquarium SeaQuest Woodbridge is set to lose its operational permits following a recent directive from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In a letter dated January 29, the DEP informed the aquarium of its decision to revoke permits due to persistent allegations of animal abuse.
The DEP’s action comes two years after SeaQuest was placed on probation for similar infractions and requires compliance with permit regulations. The nonprofit has 20 days to appeal this decision. If it fails to respond within the timeframe, the revocation will become final.
Caryn Shinske, a spokeswoman for the DEP, confirmed that SeaQuest is barred from transferring any regulated species without state approval. The aquarium also faces the obligation to provide veterinary and death records and must cease public interactions with its wildlife immediately.
Founded in Boise, Idaho, SeaQuest opened its New Jersey location in 2019 amid protests from animal rights activists. The aquarium has faced numerous citations for inadequate animal care, poorly constructed enclosures, and concerning veterinary practices. Past complaints included allegations of animals attacking each other and several instances of missing limbs among the creatures housed there.
Despite these serious violations, the aquarium remained operational, continuing to offer public interactions with its estimated 300 species of animals. However, significant public scrutiny has persisted, with inquiries revealing over 80 citations from various governmental agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
In December, SeaQuest Holdings, the parent company, filed for bankruptcy, citing over $381,000 in debts, including back rent owed to Woodbridge Center.
The fate of SeaQuest hangs in the balance as it contemplates its next steps, amid growing concerns about the welfare of the animals in its care.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
