Penguins Return to the Capitol to Highlight Storm Protection and Coral Funding Priorities

February 19, 2026

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The Florida Aquarium’s beloved African penguins—Archi, Enzi, Nuru, and Pebbles—waddled through the State Capitol this week, meeting with lawmakers to help advocate for state funding to strengthen storm protection at the Aquarium’s downtown Tampa campus and sustain Florida’s coral reef restoration efforts.

“These critically endangered animals are more than ambassadors for their species—they’re a reminder of how vulnerable our marine ecosystems can be,” said Katrina Cox, Senior Director of Grants and Government Affairs at The Florida Aquarium. “With targeted investments, we can protect marine wildlife, restore critical habitats, and advance conservation programs that benefit communities across the state.”

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PHOTOS OF THE PENGUINS’ CAPITOL VISIT
Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium

Storm and Flood Protection
The team shared the urgent need for flood barrier walls and upgrades to exterior entrances—critical protections for animals, habitats, and life support systems. Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024 brought floodwaters to the Aquarium’s doors, forcing staff to relocate animals, including penguins, to higher ground. With extreme weather events becoming more frequent, these improvements are essential to protecting both marine life and the Aquarium’s education and conservation work.

Following last year’s legislative session, when the Aquarium’s request for storm protection funding was not included in the final 2025 budget signed by the Governor, the Aquarium returned to Tallahassee to build momentum for this essential resiliency project. Backed by Senator Danny Burgess and Representative Michael Owen, the project has been filed this session as a 2026–27 Local Funding Initiative Request.

Coral Funding at Risk
In addition to storm protection, the Aquarium emphasized the importance of continued funding for Florida’s Coral Reef Restoration and Recovery efforts through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Previous investments have allowed the Aquarium and its partners to produce tens of thousands of new corals, strengthening reefs that are vital to Florida’s tourism and fishing industries, providing habitat for marine life, and helping buffer coastlines from storms. Continued support ensures these restoration efforts can continue in the face of disease, mass bleaching, and rising ocean temperatures.