Reading The Captive Sea has put me in somewhat of a philosophical bind. I consider myself to be something of an amateur scholar about zoos, including the study of their history and evolution. To that end, the Miami Seaquarium is one of the most fascinating facilities out there, and reading the book about its founding has left me with a desire to see the grounds, see how it compares to what Craig Phillips described, maybe even recognize some of the iconic structures.
On the other hand, the owners of the Seaquarium, The Dolphin Company (original name) have been in the news a lot lately amid accusations of poor husbandry, including the deaths of animals. I've made it a point in recent years to try and avoid zoos and aquariums that don't meet high standards of animal care. Any and all AZA accredited facilities I'll green-light, and the non-accredited members I take on a case by case basis (just today, for example, I learned that El Paso Zoo lost accreditation, but not for any reasons relating to animal care, which was noted as being of high quality. I expect them to regain accreditation, but if I have an opportunity to visit them before they regain it, I would do so with no qualms). There are a handful of rare or unusual animals that I could see, but I have not because I don't want to support a place.
Gulf World Marine Park faces backlash amid dolphin deaths
I'd like to think that things will turn around for the Seaquarium, but they do seem to be in a bit of a downward spiral. I might see if I can use any professional contact to get in and take a look. As for paying and supporting the place, though? That I might need to give a good long think about... and depending on what I read, and see, and hear from other folks, maybe it just isn't meant to be.
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