The Aquarium of the Pacific presents a fascinating evening with Penguins for its Oct. 7, First Wednesday lecture.
“Join us for an engaging evening with Dr. Pablo (Popi) Garcia Borboroglu as we explore the world of penguins. With 19 distinct species, these charismatic flightless seabirds play a large role in ecotourism, contributing billions each year to the global economy. Learn about the habitats, diets, migration patterns, breeding behaviors, and social dynamics of penguin colonies.
Discover how scientists track and study these remarkable creatures,” the Aquarium said in an invitation.
Dr. Borboroglu will also address the significant threats that penguins face, from food shortages and pollution to climate change. Today, more than half of the world’s penguin species have experienced sharp population declines, and are classified as vulnerable, threatened, or endangered. Gain insights into the conservation initiatives and regulations in place to help protect these beloved animals.
After the presentation, guests are invited to enjoy live music, crafts, cocktails and conversations in our art gallery. Beverages will be available for purchase at the event. The program will also be live-streamed and recorded for those unable to join in person.
For almost four decades, Dr. Pablo García Borboroglu—known as “Popi”—has followed penguins across the coasts of Patagonia and beyond, uncovering the challenges they face and turning science into action.
Courtesy photo
As the Founder and President of the Global Penguin Society, he leads the first international effort dedicated to protecting all 19 species of penguins and the ecosystems they depend on. From helping safeguard over 32 million acres of ocean and coastal habitat to collaborating with local communities, governments, and global partners, his work has directly benefited more than 3.5 million penguins.
A research scientist with Argentina’s National Research Council, Associate Professor at the University of Washington, and Chair of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (“IUCN”), Species Survival Commission (“SSC”) Penguin Specialist Group, he bridges science, policy, and storytelling to drive conservation impact at scale.
His journey from rescuing oil-covered penguins early in his career to shaping international conservation strategies has earned him some of the world’s highest honors, including the Pew Fellowship in Marine Conservation in 2009, the Whitley Gold Award in 2010, the Segre/Whitley Fund for Nature Partnership Award in 2014, the Rolex Award for Enterprise, the Indianapolis Prize, and recognition as the 2025 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year. Popi studied biological sciences at the National University of Patagonia San Juan Bosco, received his Ph.D. in biology from the National University of Comahue in Argentina, and was a Duke University Global Fellow in Marine Conservation in 2001.
The Aquarium of the Pacific’s First Wednesdays series focuses on animals, nature and conservation efforts. The events bring scientists, authors, and other experts into its Honda Pacific Visions Theater for an illustrated talk paired with meet and greets and cocktail/social hours with music and crafts. The programs are best suited for high school and college students, young professionals, and adults of all ages.
For more info or for tickets: https://www.aquariumofpacific.org