Mystic Aquarium Receives American Humane Conservation Certification

MYSTIC, CT - Mystic Aquarium announced its certification Thursday by the American Humane Conservation program.

The program is a first-of-its-kind effort dedicated solely to helping ensure that animals living in human care at the world’s zoos and aquariums are humanely and ethically treated, according to a release.

After a rigorous third-party audit based on science-based standards created by the world’s leading animal scientists, animal behaviorists and animal ethicists, Mystic Aquarium received the Humane Certified seal. This awarding confirms that “good welfare and humane treatment of all individuals and species is provided at the facility.”

The American Humane Conservation certification program was created by American Humane. With this honor, Mystic Aquarium joins an elite group of fewer than a dozen Humane Certified institutions worldwide.

“We are incredibly proud to be among the first institutions to receive this prestigious certification,” Mystic Aquarium President and CEO Stephen Coan said in a release. “Animal welfare has always been and will continue to be at the forefront of what we do here at Mystic Aquarium.”

American Humane President and CEO Dr. Robin Ganzert said in the release that the certification shows the institution’s commitment to meeting the highest standards of animal care.

“American Humane is proud to recognize this world-class institution with its prestigious Humane Certified seal of approval," Ganzert said in a release, "demonstrating to the public Mystic Aquarium’s leadership as a responsible, humane steward of the remarkable animals living in its care.”

The audit noted that many of the marine mammal areas excel in their planning each day with the animals’ learning, social and husbandry goals in mind. Mystic Aquarium employs specialized animal care professionals including veterinarians, animal trainers, aquarists and herpetologists.

“This certification is acknowledgement of the incredible passion shared by our team of animal care professionals and their ongoing and unwavering dedication to the animals in our care,” Mystic Aquarium’s Curator of Marine Mammals and Birds Laurie Macha said in a release. “We are acutely aware that it is a privilege to work with, care for and protect these animals.”

Image via Mystic Aquarium Facebook page.