Sea ice from the air, near Ellesmere Island, Nunavut. Photo: C. Shuert.

What is Arctic Sea Ice Day?

July 15 is Arctic Sea Ice Day, a time to celebrate and protect one of the planet’s coolest, and most important ecosystems. Here, at the Conservation and Research Department, we’re taking the opportunity to highlight the importance of sea ice for wildlife and the planet, and what we’re doing to Understanding the Changing Arctic!

Why is Arctic Sea Ice Important?

Arctic sea ice isn't just frozen water — it's a foundation of life for countless species, including polar bears, seals, and beluga whales. Since 1979, the Arctic has been warming at a rate nearly four times faster than the rest of the world, which has resulted in sea ice melting. As this ice melts each year due to rising global temperatures, this critical habitat shrinks, risking the future of all who rely on it for survival.

The impact of the loss of sea ice goes far beyond the Arctic. Sea ice helps regulate the Earth's climate by reflecting sunlight and maintaining ocean circulation patterns. As it disappears, we all feel the effects, from shifting weather systems to rising sea levels.

Laura Burns (left) and Dr. Stephen Petersen (right) observing seals on the sea ice near Churchill, Manitoba.

What Are We Doing at the Zoo?

Through partnerships with Arctic researchers, like Polar Bears International and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and by supporting habitat conservation and education programs, we're working to protect these critical ecosystems through Field Conservation and Mission-Focused Research. These include our programs to tracking changing seal populations and behaviour in Churchill’s river systems, monitoring beluga populations in western Hudson Bay, and contributing to our understanding of critical habitat for polar bears. When you visit the Journey to Churchill exhibit at Assiniboine Park Zoo, you're supporting that work, too!

What Can You Do to Take Part in Arctic Sea Ice Day?

Join us in celebrating Arctic Sea Ice Day as we launch this year’s Beluga Whale fieldwork livestream! Tune in weekdays, starting on July 15 through the end of August as we showcase a live, underwater view of beluga whales in Churchill. Ask questions of our team live, learn about belugas, and help contribute to our community science program, Beluga Bits.

Here are some suggestions for small actions you can take every day:

• Talk about it: Share facts about the Arctic and the importance of sea ice with your friends and family.
• Cool your carbon emissions: When possible, choose climate-friendly transportation options, such as walking, biking, and carpooling.
• Make a choice: Choose eco-friendly products, reduce your use of single-use plastics, and support policies that reduce carbon emissions.
• Stay cool: Support wildlife organizations that protect Arctic habitats (like your Zoo!).

Every small step helps create a big impact for wildlife and future generations.

Sea ice near Churchill, Manitoba. Photo: C. Shuert.