Media Inquiries

Our Communications Team is eager to connect you with Birch Aquarium’s animals, exhibits, experts, high-resolution images, and story ideas. Please let us know how we can help.

Primary Contact

Birch Aquarium Communications Office 
Phone: 858-534-8555 
birchaqmnews@ucsd.edu

Scripps Institution of Oceanography Media Inquiries   
Scripps Communications Office   
Phone: 858-534-3624 
scrippsnews@ucsd.edu


Media Admissions Policy 

The media admissions policy for Birch Aquarium enables working media to become familiar with the aquarium while, at the same time, enjoying a day with friends or family. This courtesy is extended to active members of the news media only, not including administration, sales or retired personnel.

Request MEDIA TICKETS

A maximum of four complimentary tickets are available to working media each year in the following categories:

Print Media 
Publishers, editors, reporters, writers and photographers

Broadcast Media 
News directors, assignment editors, producers (news/features), on-air personnel (anchors/hosts/DJs/reporters) and videographers/photographers

Freelance Media 
Complimentary admission is provided to freelance writers and producers with written confirmation from the assigning news outlet

Online News Media 
Publishers, editors, reporters, writers and photographers with established online news media outlets will be regarded as print media

Bloggers 
Requests from bloggers will be reviewed on a case by case basis as they relate to appropriate demographic coverage. Please submit readership numbers with your request. Bloggers must cover the following topics to be considered:

  • Family Travel
  • Parenting
  • Ocean Science and/or the Environment
  • Education
  • Special events

Media on Assignment 

News media on assignment must request interviews and film/photo shoots  in advance through the Communications Team g. This will ensure that the appropriate aquarium spokesperson is available at the time of your visit. 

All media on assignment must check in at Guest Services and be escorted during their visit. Family members and friends will not be permitted to accompany media on assignment without prior approval.

Please e-mail interview and photo requests to birchaqmnews@ucsd.edu at least five business days before your visit. We will do our best to accommodate requests on short notice.