When families visit NorCal Aquarium & Wildlife, the excitement is immediate — the flash of colorful fish, the quiet grace of reptiles, and the charm of exotic mammals and birds. But what most visitors don’t see is the careful, science-based work that goes on every single day behind the scenes to keep these animals healthy, comfortable, and thriving.
Caring for wildlife isn’t just about providing food and clean tanks. It’s about understanding the natural behaviors, biology, and emotional needs of every species. At NorCal Aquarium, our mission goes beyond entertainment — we’re dedicated to conservation, education, and setting the highest standards for animal welfare in Northern California.
Here’s a look at what really happens behind the glass — and why you can feel good knowing every animal at NorCal Aquarium is treated with compassion, expertise, and respect.
1. Every Animal Has a Personalized Care Plan
No two species are the same, and neither are their care requirements. That’s why each animal at NorCal Aquarium has a custom care plan developed by our experienced animal care team and reviewed regularly.
These plans include:
- Specialized diets tailored to each species’ nutritional needs
- Habitat temperature and humidity monitoring to replicate natural environments
- Enrichment activities that encourage physical and mental stimulation
- Health records maintained daily for tracking changes in appetite, behavior, or appearance
For example, our reptiles have carefully regulated heat lamps to mimic their native climates, while aquatic species live in filtered tanks with water chemistry tested multiple times a day. Birds receive fresh produce and nuts alongside enrichment items to keep their minds active.
We don’t just house animals — we create environments where they can thrive, not just survive.
2. A Team of Trained Professionals Behind Every Exhibit
Behind every tank, enclosure, and habitat is a passionate team of animal care professionals, aquarists, and educators dedicated to keeping the aquarium running smoothly.
Our team members bring experience from zoological facilities, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and marine biology programs. They understand how to read animal behavior, adjust environments, and manage the subtle details that keep each creature happy and healthy.
Daily routines include:
- Morning wellness checks to observe each animal’s condition
- Feeding schedules that mimic natural foraging behavior
- Tank maintenance and water quality testing
- Interactive sessions that help animals stay social and mentally engaged
Visitors often see the results of this work — calm, curious animals that are eager to engage and clearly comfortable in their surroundings.
3. Veterinary Oversight and Preventive Health Care
At NorCal Aquarium, animal health is never reactive — it’s preventive. We partner with licensed veterinarians who specialize in aquatic and exotic species to ensure regular wellness exams, lab work, and dietary reviews. Preventive care includes:
- Routine health exams and parasite screening
- Vaccinations and treatments when necessary
- Dental and skin care for certain mammals and reptiles
- Observation of behavior patterns that may indicate early signs of illness
Every animal is weighed and evaluated regularly to maintain optimal health. If an animal needs treatment, our staff provides a quiet, low-stress environment where it can recover comfortably under veterinary supervision.
4. Nutrition That Mirrors Nature
Proper nutrition is one of the most important elements of animal care. Our feeding programs are designed to replicate natural diets as closely as possible, providing a variety of proteins, fruits, vegetables, and enrichment treats that stimulate foraging instincts. For example:
- Fish and aquatic animals receive species-specific diets, including fresh seafood and nutrient-enriched feeds.
- Reptiles are fed varied, natural prey items that align with their metabolism and feeding cycles.
- Mammals and birds enjoy rotating menus that keep mealtimes exciting and nutritionally balanced.
Every feeding is an opportunity for enrichment — animals might have to “hunt” for their food, dig, or solve puzzles, keeping both body and mind active.
5. Environmental Enrichment: Keeping Minds and Bodies Active
Just like people, animals need more than food and shelter — they need mental stimulation. NorCal Aquarium incorporates enrichment programs that encourage natural behaviors such as climbing, foraging, swimming, and exploring. Some examples include:
- Floating feeders for fish that promote movement and exercise
- Hanging toys and puzzle feeders for parrots and small mammals
- Climbing branches, basking areas, and hidden tunnels for reptiles
- Variable lighting cycles to mimic day and night rhythms
Enrichment reduces boredom, lowers stress, and helps animals build trust with their caretakers. You’ll often see staff interacting with animals not just for training, but to provide comfort and companionship — an essential part of our animal care philosophy.
6. Ethical Animal Interactions
One of the reasons guests love visiting NorCal Aquarium & Wildlife is the opportunity to get close to animals — but those encounters are carefully managed to ensure safety and respect for every creature involved.
Our interactive programs are structured around animal comfort and choice. That means:
- Encounters are limited to short durations to prevent fatigue or overstimulation.
- Animals always have the option to participate — they’re never forced to interact.
- Handlers monitor each session closely to ensure positive, calm experiences for both animals and guests.
These ethical standards are part of our commitment to responsible wildlife education. By teaching children and adults how to safely and respectfully interact with animals, we help foster lifelong empathy for nature.
7. Clean, Monitored Habitats
Behind the beauty of every tank or enclosure is an extensive system of monitoring, cleaning, and maintenance. Our facilities use advanced filtration and environmental control systems to maintain water quality, air circulation, and lighting consistency.
Each habitat is cleaned on a rotation schedule that balances hygiene with animal comfort. Staff test water parameters like pH, ammonia, and salinity multiple times a day in aquatic tanks. Reptile and bird enclosures are cleaned and disinfected while preserving natural scents and familiar elements to prevent stress.
This constant attention to detail ensures that every animal lives in a safe, sanitary, and stimulating environment.
8. Conservation Through Education
NorCal Aquarium’s mission doesn’t stop at caring for the animals in our facility — it extends to protecting wildlife everywhere through education and awareness. Visitors learn about:
- The impact of pollution and habitat loss
- How to make eco-friendly choices at home
- The role of aquariums in research and species preservation
By allowing guests to see, touch, and learn about animals firsthand, we make conservation personal. When a child feeds a stingray or learns how a reptile adapts to its environment, they gain empathy and understanding — values that inspire real-world action.
9. Collaboration and Continuous Improvement
Animal care science is always evolving, and so are we. NorCal Aquarium regularly reviews new research, attends professional training programs, and collaborates with other zoological facilities to ensure we’re following the most current and ethical practices.
Our staff participates in workshops and educational programs focused on animal enrichment, husbandry, and welfare. This culture of learning helps us continually improve the way we care for our residents.
10. A Promise of Compassion and Respect
At the heart of NorCal Aquarium’s mission is a simple belief: every animal deserves care, respect, and compassion. We view our work as a partnership — between humans and animals, science and empathy, education and conservation.
From the smallest fish to the largest reptile, every creature plays a role in teaching visitors about the interconnectedness of life. When you visit, you’re not just seeing animals — you’re supporting a team that’s working to protect them.
Plan Your Visit
Experience the care, dedication, and wonder of NorCal Aquarium & Wildlife firsthand. Watch how our team interacts with animals, learn about conservation efforts, and see what responsible animal care looks like in action.
Plan your visit today 👉 Visit NorCal Aquarium & Wildlife
NorCal Aquarium & Wildlife isn’t just a place to see animals — it’s a living example of what compassion, science, and education can achieve together. Every visit helps support our ongoing mission to care for animals and inspire a new generation of wildlife advocates.