It’s going swimmingly

Be fascinated by the sea creatures in the West Edmonton Mall

Visitors to the West Edmonton Mall (WEM) will find that there’s much more than just an enormous number of stores under one roof. There’s also the chance to view sea creatures in the Sea Life Caverns and at the Sea Lions’ Rock.

A sea menagerie

The Sea Life Caverns contain animals such as turtles, stingrays, amphibians, fish, snakes and sharks, as well as the ever-popular African penguins. There are a variety of presentations happening on a daily basis.

The 22 penguins in residence are native to Namibia and South Africa, and are the only species that breed in Africa. Unlike many penguin species, African penguins have adapted to warm climates, often saving the bulk of their activities for cooler parts of the day. African penguins are a vulnerable species and have been on the decline due to predation and environmental destruction.

Birds from the WEM’s penguin colony have appeared in movies and commercials, as well as in animal shows at the mall. Fortunately, the WEM does more than house and display the birds—it is a member of the Canadian Association for Zoos and Aquariums, and is involved with conservation efforts to help the species.

Get in lion

There are four California sea lions ready to entertain at the WEM’s Sea Lions’ Rock. All four were born in captivity; in the wild these creatures can be found in a range extending from British Columbia down to Mexico. Bulls can reach a staggering weight of 400 kilograms and a length of over two metres. They can live up to 25 years.

California sea lions are intelligent and adaptable animals. The show provides a fabulous opportunity for people to learn about these remarkable creatures.