Reggae the Seal Plays with Rubber Ducks at Boston Aquarium

33-year-old Atlantic harbor seal uses toys for daily enrichment training

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Reggae, a 33-year-old Atlantic harbor seal at the New England Aquarium in Boston, has gained attention on social media for his playful interactions with rubber ducks during his daily training sessions. Trainers say the routine is part of an enrichment program designed to keep Reggae mentally and physically engaged, allowing him to practice skills like memory, problem-solving, and focus.

Why it matters

The aquarium's use of enrichment activities for its seals highlights the importance of providing stimulating environments for animals in human care. By incorporating toys and training into their daily lives, the aquarium aims to support the seals' overall health and wellbeing.

The details

During the training sessions, Reggae is asked to perform various behaviors, such as tapping his nose to a rubber duck, holding the duck under his flipper, and even waving goodbye. Trainer Liz Wait rewards Reggae with small fish for completing these tasks, which are designed to challenge him cognitively and strengthen his bond with the trainers.

  • Reggae, a 33-year-old Atlantic harbor seal, has been a resident at the New England Aquarium for many years.
  • The recent video of Reggae playing with rubber ducks was posted on social media on February 20, 2026.

The players

Reggae

A 33-year-old Atlantic harbor seal at the New England Aquarium in Boston, known for his playful interactions with rubber ducks during daily training sessions.

Liz Wait

A trainer at the New England Aquarium who works with Reggae and other seals during their enrichment activities.

Rebekah Miller

The manager of the pinniped area at the New England Aquarium, overseeing the Atlantic harbor seals and California sea lions.

Tom Smith

A 13-year-old visitor to the New England Aquarium who was surprised to see a seal hugging a rubber duck.

New England Aquarium

A public aquarium located in Boston, Massachusetts, known for its diverse collection of marine life and commitment to animal welfare and conservation.

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What they’re saying

“We describe his personality as very mellow. He's a very easygoing guy, he goes with the flow and he loves attention from people.”

— Rebekah Miller, Manager of the pinniped area, New England Aquarium (beaumontenterprise.com)

“You never expect a seal to hug a rubber ducky.”

— Tom Smith (beaumontenterprise.com)

What’s next

The New England Aquarium plans to continue using enrichment activities like the rubber duck training to keep Reggae and the other seals mentally and physically engaged. The aquarium may also share more videos of Reggae's interactions with the toys on social media to educate the public about the importance of animal welfare and conservation.

The takeaway

The New England Aquarium's use of enrichment activities for its seals, such as the rubber duck training with Reggae, demonstrates the aquarium's commitment to providing a stimulating and engaging environment for the animals in its care. This approach helps support the overall health and wellbeing of the seals, while also educating the public about the importance of animal welfare and conservation.