Protest Scheduled For This Sunday To Close Seaquest In Woodbridge
Activists with Revolution Philadelphia, Uncle Neil’s Home, A Farm Sanctuary, and PETA will be holding a protest outside of Woodbridge Mall on Sunday, August 11th from 11:30 am-1 pm to demand the immediate closure of Seaquest and relocation of animals to appropriate rescues.
What Is Seaquest?
According to their website, Seaquest brings the majestic wonders of our planet, ranging from rainforests and deserts to exotic marine life. These exhibits create an exciting quest for visitors as they make their way through an Icelandic Fishing Village, the Great Wall of China, the Amazon River, and beyond. Guests are encouraged to connect with animals and learn about their ecosystems through various hands-on activities which include hand-feeding sharks, stingrays, birds, and tropical animals.
Anyone in search of a more daring experience can enjoy walk-in aviaries, coming face-to-face with crocodilians by feeding the caiman, or snorkeling in the premier 36,000-gallon exhibit filled with reef sharks, stingrays, and hundreds of tropical fish. SeaQuest says it also offers a private event venue ideal for school field trips, birthday parties, and more.
However, Protesters tell A Different Story.
According to a press release, growing concerns for the safety and well-being of the animals living within Woodbridge Mall have been plaguing animal rights groups for several years. Recent investigations by activists and closures of other locations due to animal cruelty and neglect have led many groups to campaign for permanent closure.
Activists recently visited Seaquest Woodbridge and documented farmed animals cramped in a small enclosure, putting them at high risk for injury and death, being handled and fed by customers. A potbelly pig named George lives in a small enclosure, completely alone. No fresh air, no sunlight, no windows for these animals, who traditionally live outdoors in herds. This is animal abuse.
Over 100 animals have died at Seaquest Woodbridge since 2019, according to PETA and records from NJ Fish and Wildlife. More information can be found here:https://www.peta.org/blog/seaquest-woodbridge-animal-deaths/
The owners of Seaquest, brothers Vince and Ammon, have been cited by the USDA multiple times from multiple aquariums over the years, resulting in closures and even a federal prison for Ammon. He was sentenced to federal prison in 2013 after being convicted of conspiracy to commit illegal wildlife trafficking. More information about the Covino’s history can be found here: https://www.peta.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/CovinoFamilyFactsheet.pdf
This was recently posted to the Sequest Woodbridge Instagram page:
PROTEST INFO:
Sunday, August 11th, 11:30 am-1pm
NE corner of Woodbridge Center Dr and Woodbridge Terrace
Speaking of sea life, join us on the Big Day Off Fishing Trip on August 14th. Win your way on here.
