Water Logged

Ahead of the octopus

2011-12-30T07:02:00.000-08:00

Our last post featured our top 10 reasons to visit the Aquarium this week. Unfortunately, we were premature with number 8, "catch a glimpse of our new octopus."

A change to the physical exhibit forced a delay in the octopus's debut. All is well with the animal and we will let you know as soon as the octopus takes residence in the exhibit.

Of course, we can give many more reasons to visit the Aquarium this week like the daily feedings at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and live animal encounters with Aquarium educators. You can also see a baby loggerhead turtle at the "Let's Talk Turtle" exhibit, discover how hurricanes form and move, watch seahorse swim and so much more.

Top 10 reasons to visit the Aquarium this week

2011-12-28T13:12:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is winding down but we don’t want you to be left in the cold with nothing to do. Here are our top 10 reasons to visit the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher this week:

Enjoy your Aquarium without huge summer crowds.

Show off a local hot spot to your holiday visitors.

Burn off the eggnog and cookies with a stroll around the Aquarium grounds and gardens.

See how Luna, our rare albino alligator, keeps warm during the holidays.

Compare baby sharks in Shadows on the Sand with the mature sharks in Cape Fear Shoals.

Enjoy an exotic getaway without leaving Wilmington in our Exotic Aquatics exhibit, which includes lionfish, poison dart frogs and huge spiny lobsters.

Take a Behind the Scenes or Extended Behind the Scenes tour and explore more of the Aquarium and watch sharks and rays feed.

Catch a glimpse of our new octopus. (A change in the physical exhibit forced a delay in the octopus's debut. We will keep you posted.)

Take your time at the touch tank meeting horseshoe crabs, stingrays, sea stars and anemones.

Discover just how large North Carolina's fiercest predator, pre-historic Megalodon, really was.

Best Kept Secret

2011-10-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

Today, cool temperatures and rain greeted the McMackin family on their first day of vacation in Holden Beach. Instead of getting down, they decided to follow a friend's advice and head up to the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

"This is our first time here," said Jim McMackin.

Jim, his wife Karen and their sons, Jack and Josh, hail from Johnson City, Tenn.

The Aqaurium offered them an exciting opportunity to see animals they've never seen.

"The eel is fascinating," said Karen.

"Look, he's right there," said Jack, pointing excitedly to a chartreuse Moray keeping watch from under a rocky outcropping in the Cape Fear Shoals exhibit.

The Coquina Outcrop Touch Pool with its horseshoe crabs, sea urchins and sea stars also fascinated the McMackins.

From the fresh water habitats of the Cape Fear Conservatory to the colorful reefs teeming with hundreds of fish in the Marine Building, the McMackins discovered a visit to the Aquarium made their day.

"This is like a best kept secret," said Jim.

Ocean Explorers Blog 5

2011-08-12T09:42:00.001-07:00

Last day for our last group of Ocean Explorers for this summer. What was today's favorite activity? What did they learn about an "extreme animal"?

Jessie: "Taking the tour was my favorite. I saw some new stuff." "The king snake. It has no venom, but it will eat other snakes."

Jackson: "My favorite - the kingsnake. I got to pet him. The kingsnake eats rattlesnakes."

Sarah: "My favorite activity was touching the snake." "We learned about snakes."

Katy G: "I liked touching the snake. His skin was so smooth." "My favorite extreme animal was the girafffe. It has a 22-lb heart."

Anica: "I finally overcame my fear of snakes by touching a kingsnake." "The whale is an extreme animal ... its awesome song."

Kolten: "My favorite was going to the Megalodon exhibit, because their teeth are huge." "A kingsnake - it eats rattlesnakes."

Kelly B. "I liked touching a kingsnake, because who gets to touch a snake every day?" "Today I learned about the great white shark. They are the largest top-predator shark."

Jessie R. "My favorite activity was exploring the Aquarium, because there are so many fascinating creatures." "Today I learned about the kingsnake and its appetite for venomous snakes."

Peyton: "My favorite activity was touching the snake." "Kingsnakes can eat venomous snakes and can process the venom."

Katie F: "I liked touching/petting Hunter Helpington the 9th (the kingsnake) because I liked the name!" "My favorite extreme animal is the Megalodon, because I like its big jaws."

Kaylee P: "I enjoyed touching the kingsnake. The kingsnake easts venomous snakes."

Chris: "I liked learning about a kingsnake, and it was really cool. I learned that a kingsnake eats other snakes."

Chase: "I enjoyed meeting Hunter Helpington the snake." "A hyena's bite is stronger than a lion's bite."

Davis: "Touching a snake was awesome!"

L.J. "My favorite was the Aquarium tour. We saw the Megalodon exhibit." "A hyena -- it looks like a dog but it is not."

Tommy: "I liked going behind the scenes and seeing the fish." "A peregrine falcon can fly 200 mph."

Ocean Exporers Blog 4

2011-08-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

Another day of fun in the sun, plus behind-the-scenes learning opportunities. Here are log entries from our 10- to 12-year-old Aquarium campers.

Peyton: "My favorite activity was behind-the-scenes, because I saw a sandbar shark." "Extreme animal - the fidder crab. It can dig into the ground to hide from predators."

Sarah R: "My favorite was canoeing, because we went to Zeke's Island." "We learned about sea turtles on the coast."

Anica: "My favorite was seeing the sea turtle." "The rock fish -- it blends with the rocks."

Jackson: "The canoe trip was my favorite, because we saw a stingray." "My favorite extreme animal was plankton, because some types turn into other animals."

Jessie H: "Going behind the scenes -- I got to see a baby sea turtle." "The moon jellyfish -- we learned about its life cycle."

Jessie R: "My favorite was going behind the scenes to see animals, because I got to see sharks sticking their fins out of the water for the first time." "Today I learned about coral, and the different abilties it has to catch plankton."

Tommy: "Behind the scenes, because we got to see crabs and turtles." "Sharks have a black top and a black bottom, for camouflage."

Katie F: "I learned a lot behind the scenes." "Plankton can change into different animals."

Katy G: "My favorite activity today was canoeing. It was my first time, and it was fun." "I learned about plankton. Some plankton can change."

Kolten: "My favorite thing today was going to Zeke's Island. I saw a stingray." "Coral can swim in the underwater."

Kelly B: "My favorite activity was canoeing, because I have only been once before." "I learned about plankton. Plankton can be an animal or a plant."

Chase: "Canoeing was fun. Seeing a stingray was cool." "An octopus can shrink to the size of its beak."

Chris: "I liked the backstage tour, because it was educational." "I learned that some jellyfish have points that release from the tentacles when it touches something."

Kaylee: "I enjoyed canoeing and going to Zeke's Island." "Jellyfish -- a type of plankton, no brains, stingers!"

L.J.: "Canoeing; we saw a live manta ray." "Coral needs lots of sunlight."

ONLY ONE MORE CAMP DAY LEFT THIS SUMMER!

Ocean Explorers 3

2011-08-11T04:25:00.000-07:00

Here are log-book entries for Wednesday, from our intrepid Ocean Explorers. They describe their favorite activity of the day, and tell what they learned about an "extreme animal."

Jackson: “My favorite was the beach, because I got to boogie board the whole time.” "Some starfish species can regenerate themselves."

Sarah: "Going behind the scenes, because it was fun.” “We learned about the sea turtles and how they migrate.”

Chris: “I liked it when we learned about sea urchins because I learned a lot about them. I learned that sea urchins are vegetarians.”

Peyton: "Making shirts, because I had a lot of fun.” “Emperor Penguins – they can grow to be 5 feet tall.”

Jessie R: “My favorite activity today was painting green T-shirts because it made me excited to wear a shirt I made.” “Today I learned about many creatures of the Galapagos Islands. The iguanas have adapted to marine life and do not live in the water.”

Jessie H: “I had fun making the T-shirts!” “The sea urchins curl using their spikes.”

Katie F: “My favorite activity today was the T-shirt making because it was a craft.” “I learned about deep sea animals and that they can go under tons of pressure!”

Kelly B: “I liked going to the beach because it started raining.” “We saw a star fish. It sticks its stomach out of its mouth and dissolves its prey.”

Kaylee: “I learned that the Arctic tern travels 50,000 miles.”

Chase: “The beach because it was so fun boogie boarding.” “Starfish because if you cut them in half they will grow back.”

Katy G: “My favorite activity today was getting rained on at the beach. I liked it because the rain water felt so good.” “I learned about the box jellyfish. The Australian ones are venomous.”

Tommy: “Getting to see and touch starfish and sea urchins.” “Galapagos iguanas that can dive and eat the algae that grows on rocks.”

Anica: “Making the box jelly." “The box jelly strings are poisonous.”

MORE TOMORROW!

Ocean Explorers Blog 2

2011-08-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today our campers made their own paper with recycled fiber, and used it to make covers for their daily logbooks. They also explored the Aquarium's behind-the-scenes life-support and holding areas, saw a sea-turtle film, and made sea-creature masks. Oh, and they went to the beach for a swim!

Jessie: "Today my favorite activity was making sea-creature masks, because I enjoyed seeing my paper plate slowly evolve into a cuttlefish." "I learned about the loggerhead turtle and its 30-year-long from the coast of America to nearly Africa!"

Chase: "My favorite was behind the scenes, because it was very interesting." "The extreme animal I learned about was the sea turtle. It travels so far!"

Sarah: "My favorite activity was going behind the scenes, because it was fun." "We learned about sea turtles and how they migrate."

Kelly: "I liked going behind the scenes and seeing the frog fish, because I haven't seen it before." "I learned about a humpback whales, and how they talk to each other by 'singing.'"

Jessie: "Going behind the scenes -- it wuz fun!" "I learned about the loggerhead turtle and its life cycle."

Peyton: "My favorite activity was behind the scenes, because I saw some cool underwater animals." "The loggerhead can act like a leaf at the top of the water."

Davis: "I liked going behind the scenes." "The angler fish has a little light on its head. The little light attracts prey."

L.J. "My favorite was behind the scenes, because we learned about the Aquarium!" "I learned about the loggerhead turtle. It goes back to where it was born."

Katy: "My favorite part of today was going to the beach. I rode tons of waves and had fun with my friends." "My favorite extreme animal was the sea turtle. I learned the route they swim."

Kolten: "I liked playing at the beach, cause I rode my boogie board." "The extreme animal I learned about was the loggerhead sea turtle. They swim a long distance."

Kaylee: "I liked the movie about the instincts of a turtle, because every animal has instincts." "The angle-fish lives in pitch blackness at the lowest depths of the sea and it has a little light to attract prey."

Jackson: "I liked the beach because I boogie-boarded the big kahuha!" "I liked the angler fish, because it has a lure to lure in prey."

Chris: "Today I liked going to the beach, because you get to play with everyone." "I learned that a loggerhead turtle is born on land."

Katie F. "My favorite activity today was going to the beach, because I liked going under the waves." "I learned about sea turtles, and learned that turtles can swim around the world."

Anica: "We made angler fish masks today. It was fun." "The extreme animal and its adaptation: the angler fish has a light that attracts prey."

Tommy: "We went to the beach and caught some waves." "Humpback whales travel from the Antarctic to the Caribbean."

MORE TOMORROW!

Ocean Explorers Blog 1

2011-08-08T12:54:00.001-07:00

Today we welcomed the last of our Ocean Explorers for the summer. They started out their week visiting the tide pools of the only rocky outcrop on the North Carolina Coast -- it's very near the Aquarium! They also met Wilson the Wood Duck, they studied about "extreme animals" of the Arctic, and then they made shadow-box dioramas to illustrate what they learned.

Kolten: "I enjoyed the craft, because we got to make collages of extreme polar animals." "I learned about the Arctic Tern, which is a bird that migrates the farthest of any animal."

Katie F.: "My favorite activity was making the shadow box, because the creativity part was really fun." "I think Wilson the Wood Duck was cool because his feathers were waterproof."

Katy G.: "My favorite was going to the rocky outcrop. I liked it because I found some cool shells." "I learned the Wood Ducks camouflage to their surroundings."

Peyton: "Wilson the Wood Duck had cool adaptations." "The polar bear has adaptations; his skin is really black so it absorbs heat."

Sarah: "My favorite was Wilson, because he was interesting." "We learned about birds and how they are related to reptiles."

Chase: "Seeing Wilson the duck was my favorite activity, because he is so funny, and very interesting." "The great white shark is extreme because it can live for days in brackish water."

Jessie: "My favorite was meeting the duck Wilson, because I didn't know that much about ducks. A duck lives up to 20 years."

Kaylee: "My favorite thing today was going to the coquina rocky outcrop. I found a crab exoskeleton." "I learned about the Arctic tern. It travels 50,000 miles."

L.J. : "I liked finding all the sharks' teeth. I liked it because you got to impress others with what you found." "I learned that the wood duck molts to get rid of germs."

Anica: "I enjoyed finding cool seashells and sharks' teeth, because I haven't been able to do so (before)." "I learned about the leopard seal. It lives in Antarctica."

Chris: "My favorite thing today was to meet Wilson, because he pooped everywhere and flew everywhere." "I learned that the Arctic Tern is the farthest traveling animal ever."

Kelly: "I liked seeing Wilson the Wood Duck because he went crazy; he was flying and jumping out of the cage." "I learned about a polar bear. They have black skin and then two layers of clear fur. The look white from the reflection of the sun."

Davis: "My favorite was the rocky outccrop, or you can call it the coquina." "I learned that the penguins swim to find food instead of flying."

Tommy: "My favorite was when we went to a rocky outcrop and found a starfish and a hermit crab." "I learned that giraffes are extreme animals. They have to have long tongues so they can reach leaves."

Jackson: "My favorite was when we met Wilson the Wood Duck. I liked it because he attacked my friend." "I learned about the penguin. It has feathers that can withstand hundreds of degrees below zero."

Jessie: "My favorite today was going to the coquina, a group of mossy rocks with an abundance of wildlife, becuase I enjoyed finding and watching the animals." "I learned that the Wood Duck has many adaptations, such as molting feathers, webbed feet, and its bill, to survive in bodies of water."

WHAT WILL THEY EXPLORE TOMORROW? VISIT AGAIN AND FIND OUT!

Ocean Explorers 5

2011-08-05T15:37:00.000-07:00

Our Ocean Explorers log their last day at camp. They describe today's favorite activity, and what they learned about an "extreme animal," and its adaptations.

Mason: "I liked touching the snake, because it felt really scaly." "A black rat snake can climb really well."

Emily: "Today my favorite activity was taking the tour and learning about all the animals." "Today I learned about an anteater. The anteater is a mammal."

Simon: "The dive show was really cool!" "A chameleon camouflages by changing colors."

Hannah: "My favorite activity was touring the aquarium, because it was really cool." "I learned that the bush baby is the smallest primate."

Michael: "I liked meeting the rat snake, because I got to touch it." "I learned that the black mamba is the fastest snake, and it is venomous."

Erin: "My favorite activity was touching the rat snake. It was the cutest snake I have ever seen (besides my corn snake)." "The bush baby -- the bush baby can jump 20 feet!"

Anna: "My favorite activity was going to the top of the fish tank." "My favorite extreme animal was the black rat snake. They shed their skin."

Kerrigan: "My favorite activity was going behind the scenes, because we got to see baby animals." "A black rat snake squeezes its prey before eating it."

Laura K: "I liked seeing the snake. The snake is very beautiful." "I learned that the peregrine falcon is the fastest bird in the world."

Savannah: "I liked touring the Aquarium, because we got to see the Megalodon exhibit." "Snakes -- they use their forked tongue to sense direction."

Alyssa: "I loved touring the Aquarium, because the Megalodon exhibit was very good." "I like the African lungfish because it can go four years living in mud even though it has gills."

Laura: "My favorite activity today was touring the Aquarium. I liked doing that because I got to see all the different animals and exhibits." "The cheetah is my favorite extreme animal -- it can run extremely fast."

Sophia: "My favorite was meeting the rat snake, because we got to pet it." "The extreme animal I learned about was the Nile crocodile. It is the largest crocodile in Africa."

William: "Going behind the scenes, seeing animals I never knew about." "The giraffe's adaptation is its long neck and legs, so they can reach tall things."

Emily: "I liked seeing the snake, because we got to touch it." "I learned about the ostrich, and that it has 3 eyelids."

THANKS TO ALL OF YOU! (Tune in again Monday, when another group of Ocean Explorers comes to the Aquarium!)

Ocean Exporers Blog 4

2011-08-04T12:15:00.000-07:00

Whew! What a day! Jellyfish-touching, behind-the-scenes touring, a bit of beach-business (check out those shark teeth), and more) ....

Michael: "My favorite activity was going behind the scenes, because we got to see all the animals." "I learned that a jellyfish's adaptation is its sting."

Emily Grace H.: "Today I learned about jellyfish, and a moon jelly's sting is so small that you can't even feel it."

Alyssa: "I loved the beach and going behind the scenes. I loved finding animals at the beach and learning about the extreme animals in the aquarium." "I enjoyed learning about jellyfish. They sting to paralyze their prey."

Kerrigan: "My favorite activity was going to the beach, because the water was nice and cool." "An extreme animal that I learned about today was a jellyfish. A jellyfish is a type of plankton. That's why it just floats around."

Simon: "My favorite was going to the beach." "The alligator lives in a gator hole."

Emily Grace K.: "I liked going to the beach because I took a nap on the beach." "I learned about moon jellies. They sting but you can't feel it."

Laura: "I liked going behind the scenes and seeing the sharks." "About the turtle: I learned that if the water is too cold they can get cold-stunned."

Mason: "I liked behind the scenes, because we got to see sharks." "The extreme animal I saw today was the jellyfish. Its adaptation is its tentacles."

Sophia: "I liked the beach, because there were good waves." "The extreme animal I learned about was the moon jellyfish. We learned the bell is the top of a jellyfish."

Laura Ellen: " My favorite activity was going to the beach and playing in the water and the sand." "I learned that sharks have a lot of big and sharp teeth to kill other fish or animals for food."

Savannah: "My favorite activity was going behind the scenes, because I got to see a lot of amazing animals." "Jellyfish use their stinging tentacles to stun prey and their feeding tentacles moving it to their mlouths."

Hannah: "I liked going to the beach and finding seashells and shark teeth." "We learned about plankton. Plankton has many different species, and they can turn into different animals."

Erin: "My favorite activity was going behind the scenes and seeing the green sea turtle. The aquarium is holding it 'cause it was cold-stunned. :) " "The extreme animal we learned about was the moon jelly -- we learned how they sting their prey and stuff."

William: "I liked going behind the scenes and seeing fish that other people can't see." "The jellyfish's adaptation is stinging animals and people to protect itself."

Anna: "My favorite activity was LUNCH, because I ate three hot dogs." "Today we learned about jellyfish with stingers that are really small."

ONE MORE DAY TO GO! TUNE IN TOMORROW!

Ocean Explorers Blog 3

2011-08-03T13:02:00.000-07:00

Today our Ocean Explorers made T-shirts, went canoeing, went for a swim, explored the touch-pool, and continued learning about "extreme animals." Some memories of the day:

Savannah: "My favorite was making the shirts, because it was fun painting." "I learned that a hermit crab uses its shell to hide from predators."

Michael: "I liked canoeing, because it was fun paddling." "A crab's adaptations are its claws and its eyes."

Anna: "My favorite activity was swimming in the lazy river today." "My favorite extreme animal that we learned about was the star fish. They have suction things to help them walk."

Mason: "My favorite was making the shirts, because it was really fun to paint." "I learned about the hermit crab. It hides in its shell."

Erin: "When we went canoeing (was my favorite)." "The swimming hole was perfect for swimming." "I learned about the decorative crab. It uses other shells and urchins to "decorate" its shell, or for camouflage."

Emily: "Going canoeing was fun. It was really fun going in the lazy river." "Extreme animal: the otter. It lives in the kelp forest."

Kerrigan: "My favorite was making our camp T-shirts, because I made seafoam green." "The emperor penguin stays above ground during the winter. They huddle together to keep warm."

Laura: "Canoeing was my favorite today. It was so much fun going to Zeke's Island." "I learned about crabs. Their eyes are on the top of their heads."

William: "Making the shirts. It was fun painting the fish and writing your name on it." "I earned about sea urchins. Their adaptations are its spikes. They used them to protect themselves with the spikes' venom."

Alyssa: "I loved canoeing and making shirts. Canoeing ws fun because we got to play at Zeke's Island. And making shirts is like a camp tradition that I have done for 5 years." "I liked learning about sea stars. They can grow their arms back if they lose them."

Sophia: "I liked going to the beach, because we got to work together." "Humpbacks eat thousands of krills."

Emily: "My favorite activity was painting a fish and putting a print of it on a green T-shirt." "An extreme animals that I learned about today was a crab. Its eyes are on stilts on top of their heads."

Hannah: "I liked canoeing, because I never canoed in the front of a canoe before." "I learned about a sea anemone, and they are related to jellyfish."

Simon: "Making the shirts was fun!" "Penguins can't fly!"

Laura Ellen: "My favorite activity today was going canoeing." "A sea otter has fins so it can swim in the water."

More coming tomorrow!

Ocean Explorers Blog 2

2011-08-03T06:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday our campers went to the beach, learned more about "extreme animals," and went on a behind-the-scenes tour. After lunch, they had fun making masks of aquatic creatures they've been learning about. Here are some of their notes:

Emily Grace: "Today we went behind the scenes and saw a flounder. I named it FishyFishy Flounder. It is a cool name." "The deep sea animal that we learned about was a deadly jellyfish, and if it stings you you will die."

Sophia: "I liked going to the beach, because we got to surf big waves." "One extreme animal is a sea snake. It can stay under water for 8 hours."

Emily King: "I liked the beach because the waves were just right." "An angler fish is a deep-sea fish and he has something on his or her head."

Laura: "I had a lot of fun at the beach." "The shark has scales that are rough, and if you magnify it it looks like teeth."

Kerrigan: "We got to swim and play in the sand." "An octopus can change its texture and color. An octopus squirts ink at you to escape."

Laura Ellen: "My favorite was going to the beach and playing in the water." "Giant squid can squirt out ink so they can get away from their predators."

Mason: "I found two shark teeth at the beach." "The angler fish is cool because it has a light coming out of its head."

Alyssa: "The waves at the beach were epic." "I learned the angler fish has a light so it can see in the deep sea."

Simon: "My favorite was going behind the scenes." "The whale shark is the largest shark."

Erin: "The water at the beach was perfect. Even though it was high tide, the waves were easy to dive or jump over." "The angler fish is a deep-sea fish with a light-looking thingy on top of its face."

Anna: "My favorite was playing on the beach." "The extreme animal I learned about was the octopus. They have 8 arms and a big head."

Hanna: "I liked going to the beach because I like swimming." "Extreme animals I learned about: Box jellies and angler fish -- they use bioluminsescense."

Michael: "The beach was really fun." "The octopus is one extreme animal I learned about. Its adaptations are 8 arms, and it has no bones."

Savanna: "My favorite activity was behind the scenes, because it was fun to learn about the animals." "The box jellyfish uses bioluminescense."

Ocean Explorers Blog 1

2011-08-01T12:34:00.000-07:00

A new gang of Ocean Explorers started today, with a new camp theme, Extreme Animals! Here are today's blog entries:

Sophia: "I liked Wilson the Wood Duck because it was fun to learn bird facts." "I learned about a shark: a shark is a FISH."

Simon: "We got to see Wilson. He jumped on people. Wood ducks have green feathers on their heads, and the males are even more colorful."

Laura K.: "My favorite activity was taking a walk, because I saw a buck and a Great Blue Heron." "An extreme animal is a polar bear. They have thick layers of hair and their bodies are black."

Hannah: "I liked seeing Wilson the Wood Duck. He was very interesting. I learned stuff I' ve never known before. I learned about how males look different than females." "The extreme animal I learned about was the narwhal. It is interesting to know they use a huge tooth to fight."

Michael: "My favorite was meeting the duck, because he was jumping all over the place." "Polar bear was the extreme animal I learned about today; its adaptations are its fur and its teeth."

Alyssa Cribb: "My favorite activity was making paper, because it is something I've never done before." "I liked learning about the narwhal; it has a tooth for fighting."

Erin: "My favorite activity was watching Wilson the Wood Duck. He pooped twice. As we were putting him away he flew away and jumped on me and Alyssa .... He is adapted to live in the swampy woods."

Anna: "My favorite activity was making the boat." "I learned about penguins. They swim and eat fish and slide on their bellies."

William: "Wilson the Wood Duck was so cute and colorful." "The narwhal's adaptation is its tooth. It grows up to a foot and it uses it to fight."

Mason: "Wilson was my favorite ... so fun to watch him." "A great white shark's adaptations are its flippers, and the flippers help him swim."

Emily: "When Wilson came he would not go into his cage and he walked on the back of my legs." "A polar bear is an extreme animal that is warm blooded."

Savannah: "Making the shadow box was fun and it was very creative." "The narwhal uses its horn to fight."

Laura: "My favorite activities today were meeting Wilson, and making paper. I also liked making my diarama." "We learned about whales and how they have blubber to move around easily."

Emily Grace: "My favorite activity today was arts and crafts, because I love to use creativity." "Today we learned about Penguins ...."

Kerrigan: "My favorite activity was meeting Wilson, because he flew onto Alyssa's leg." "A polar bear has two layers of fur and his skin is black."

More tomorrow!

Ocean Explorers Blog 5

2011-07-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

Today they finished up the week with a presentation for moms and dads in the auditorium. Before lunch, a lady from the wildlife rescue center introduced them to a recovering pelican and explained how to help birds in trouble. Here are some of their memories...

Sydney: "It was really a fun week. I enjoyed everything, because I got to have fun with my friends. We got to touch velvet pelicans because you don't usually get to pet one. We learned we should not litter fishing lines because it can hurt birds. Also, if a nest is lying on the ground with a bird without feathers, put it in a clean container with a towel on the bottom."

Hampton: "I liked the pelican because it was so cool." "If you find a bird without feathers on the ground put it in a Cool Whip container because it is small and comforting."

Ryan: "I liked lunch, because I was hungry." "I learned it is not good to keep wildlife."

Noah: "I liked meeting birds. We touched the pelican." "What did I learn? Don't look birds in the eye, or they will be scared."

Elena: "I liked the dive show." "When saving birds, pick them up with a towel."

Alex: "My favorite thing was to see a pelican." "If you find an injured bird, bring it to Ellen at the Sea Biscuit Wildlife Center."

Kelly: "I liked touching the bird because it was softer than a blanket and I have never done that before." "I learned that you can pick up a baby bird if it is on the ground and it has no feathers or its eyes are closed."

Andrew: "I liked everything." "I learned that monofilament lines take 600 years to break down, and there are a lot of cigs that we need to pick up."

Another group of Ocean Explorers starts blogging next week!

Ocean Exporers Blog 4

2011-07-28T13:01:00.000-07:00

Today they learned about oil spills, went crabbing, and more!

Alex: "I learned that turtles have brains the size of thumbs and they think plastic bags are food."

Sydney: "One of my favorite activities was going crabbing, because you never really get to crab with your friends and it was fun to feel the tug on the rope." "We learned how to clean up oil spills. They hurt animals because they may eat it or get covered. Also it wa a fun project because we got to experiment and see how we could take it [the oil] away."

Ryan: "I liked seeing the turtle, because it was cool." "I learned not to litter in the sea."

Elana: "I liked going behind the scenes." "We learned about oil spills and littering and how to clean them up."

Andew: "My favorite was crabbing, because I caught a crab." "I learned that an oil spill can take a very long time to clean up."

Kelly: "I caught TWO crabs!" "I learned that to help sea turtles the aquarium moves the nest if it is too close to the ocean.

Hampton: "My favorite was the mini oil spill, because we tried to clean up oil." "I learned, Don't cause oil spills!"

Noah: "I liked cleaning up the oil spill." "I learned that when cleaning up an oil spill you can try anything to clean up the oil but it does not always work. You can donate your hair when there is a spill, but it does not always. work."

Check back tomorrow -- their last day of camp!

Ocean Explorers Blog 3

2011-07-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

Wednesday: Another day of learning and fun for our summertime day-campers. Today's blog entries:

Kelly: "I liked going behind the scenes and seeing the sharks and the octopus, because I haven't seen the octopus in all the 3 years that I have been here." "I learned about the sea turtles. To help save them we can: stop littering, try to watch where you are driving your boat, and not messing with them."

Noah: "Behind the scenes, there were live sharks!"

Alex: "I liked going to the saltwater quarantine." "I learned we can save turtles by not messing with them."

Sydney: "I liked behind the scenes, because we got to learn about animals such as seahorses, yellow stingrays, fish, jellyfish and sharks." "We can prevent losses of sea turtles. We can help them by not littering, picking up trash, and helping the people who work at the sea turtle hospital."

Hampton: "I liked going to the beach, because we had fun." "We should help protect beaches because turtles bury their eggs there."

Elena: "I liked watching a sea turtle movie." "I learned all about turtles and how we can save them."

Andrew: "I liked going to the beach, because we had fun." "I learned sharks have 30,000 teeth. Octopuses, 3 brains and 7 hearts."

Ryan: "My favorite was the turtles." "I learned to not to lietter in the sea."

More coming tomorrow!

Ocean Explorers Blog 2

2011-07-26T13:40:00.000-07:00

Second day for our 10- to 12-yr-old Ocean Explorer day-campers. We asked them to tell what they liked best, and what they learned about helping and protecting wildlife.

Alex: "I liked going to the beach, because we found fossils, and I learned, To save a turtle, pick up trash."

Elena: "My favorite activity was making shirts." "I learned all about snakes."

Andrew: "I liked the movies." "I learned that litter can harm wildlife and that it's important to help."

Hampton: "I liked going behind the scenes, because we got to see all kinds of animals." "I learned Don't cut down trees because animals live there."

Ryan: "My favorite was going to the beach." "We learned not to wreck their habitat."

Kelly: "My favorite was seeing the baby alligators because I have NEVER seen one that small!" "I learned that if you find or see an albino anything call a zoo or aquarium so they can take care of it."

Noah: "My favorite was watching videos, because they were relaxing." "Never litter, and if you see an albino send it to an aquarium or a zoo."

Sydney: "Going to the beach was my favorite because we got to play and jump in the waves with our friends." " Don't cut down animals habitats because the animals will have to leave for some unknown place."

Check back tomorrow for more!

Ocean Explorers Blog 1

2011-07-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

Whoa! Another wave of Ocean Explorers arrived today! Let's check their blog entries to see what they like, and what they're learning:

Kelly: "I liked going to the rocky outcrop and collecting all the trash, because I like helping clean the environment. I learned that when you have a balloon, don't let it go, because a turtle might think it is a jellyfish."

Noah: "I liked meeting Wilson [the wood duck]. He was biting the air randomly." "I learned you should grab things you see, like trash."

Andrew: "My favorite activity was meeting everybody, because I made a new friend and now I'm not scared to talk to people." "I learned that you need to reduce, reuse and recycle, to help keep something bad from happening to another animal."

Elena: "My favorite activity was making fish, because it was fun." "I learned about ducks. Oil spills can be bad for birds."

Alex: "My favorite was playing a game." "We learned to protect animals."

Hampton: "We went to the rocky outcrop and saw anemones and algae." "I learned if a duck or bird is covered in oil it can't fly or swim, so you should clean it up."

Sydney: "I liked the arts and crafts, when we made a fish out of a bottle and paper that was recycled. The reason it was my favorite was because it was really fun and it was a cool way to recycle." "We learned how plastic bags and balloons can hurt sea turtles because they think they're jellyfish. I also learned about how to keep them safe because they could get stuck in something, and we learned how they survive."

Ryan: "My favorite today was the beach pickup. I liked this because it helps the earth." "We learned how to protect wildlife by sorting plastic cans and stuff like that."

More to come, tomorrow!

Ocean Exporers Blog 4

2011-07-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

It's Friday, and our campers are finishing up the last day of a very busy week. Here are today's blog entries:

Jonathan: "Everything today was my favorite activity because everything was so fun." "I learned what hermit crabs look like out of their shells."

Alana: "I liked going to the Megalodon exhibit because it's extinct, and I learned some stuff."

Blake: "I learned that cigarette butts take 25 years [to decompose]."

PJ: "I learned that the big tank is 24 feet high. I liked the show in the big tank because it was interesting."

Matt: "I liked going to the top of the big tank because I saw all the fish. I learned that in the big tank all the coral is fake."

Michael: "My favorite activity was going to the top of the shark tank, because of the sharks." "I learned that everybody can help [protect wildlife]."

Jon: "I liked everything. We went all around the aquarium." "I learned we can all make a difference."

Conor: "I liked going to the top of the large tank because it was so cool to see all of the fish from above."

Katy: "My favorite was going to the top of the big tank and seeing the fish and seeing the divers clean the glass. We learned how deep the big tank is -- 23 to 25 feet."

Ocean Explorers Blog 3

2011-07-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Another full day for our 10- to 12-year-old day-campers. What were their favorite activities? What did they learn?

Matt: "My favorite was the sharks. I learned Don't put garbage in the ocean or in anything but a trash can."

Alana: "I liked going behind the scenes because it's something you usually don't get to do when you go to the Aquarium."*

Michael: "My favorite was the fossil pit because I found this [he has a shark's tooth]." "I learned that balloons can harm sea turtles, so now I won't let balloon go."

PJ: "I learned that when a turtle shell splits they put sugar on it."

Jonathan: "I liked watching the baby yellow stingray because it was the first one born in captivity." "I learned how to look for cigarettes [on the beach] and to thrown them away."

Blake: "Don't put plastic bags in the water because sea turtles will eat them."

Conor: "I liked going behind the scenes because it was cool to see all the fish and how they take care of them."

Jon: "My favorite was getting a white tooth [in the fossil pit].

Katy: "I liked going behind the scenes in the saltwater quarantine. I love seeing the new animals they have." "We can rescue sea turtles hung up in a fishing line if we help get it free.

CHECK BACK TOMORROW FOR THIS GROUP'S LAST-DAY BLOG!

*(Remember that Behind-the-Scenes tours ARE available as Special Activities -- just check the Website to make reservations.)

Ocean Explorers Blog 2

2011-07-21T06:05:00.000-07:00

Our Happy Campers share what they've been up to over the past couple of days. We asked them to describe their favorite activities (going to the beach ranked high), and to tell us what they've been learning....

Jon: "I learned that glass bottles take the longest to decompose."

Alana: "I learned that a diaper can take 450 years to decompose."

Matt: "We should not throw garbage, like fishing line, which can take 600 years to decompose."

Blake: "I learned that corn snakes can be found in different places."

Katy: "We went to the beach today and collected trash to clean the beach." "We learned about a sea turtle named Carala, and we learned where and how sea turtles travel through the world of the sea."

Michael: "We went to Zeke's Island with canoes." "We saw a snake and learned a lot."

Jonathan: "My favorite was seeing Wilson the duck, because he was trying repeatedly to bite the marine worker: "I learned that oysters are sharp and dangerous."

Conor: "I learned that if an animal has oil all over it it needs to be scrubbed and washed for a while and then you need to return it back to the wild."

PJ: "I liked going to Zeke's Island, because it was fun catching crabs and fish." "I learned that dirty diapers take 450 years to go away."

Tune in tomorrow for more!

Ocean Explorers Blog 1

2011-07-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

A new crop of 10- to 12-year-old campers came aboard today! We asked them to evaluate their first day's favorite activities, and to tell what they learned that will contribute to the rescue or protection of wildlife. Let's check out their blog entries:

Jonathan: "I liked trying to catch stuff at the marsh ... and I learned that picking up trash can stop "the trash island the size of Texas" from getting any bigger."

Blake: "I liked it when we made fish with bottles ... and I learned that we put out our lights at night because the turtles can get hit."

Michael: "I liked going to the salt marsh, because it was cool ... and I learned that recycling can save wildlife."

Conor: "I liked going to the marsh because I have always wanted to play around in the marsh." "One way to help wildlife is to, if you spot or dig up turtle eggs, barricade it off."

PJ: "I liked making bottle fish because it was really fun ... and I learned that you should never litter or build in the marsh."

Matt: "My favorite was making bottle fish because we painted! And we reused the bottles. And I learned we protect wildlife by recycling paper, and (plastic) bags."

Katy: "My favorite activity is when we went crab fishing. I love to work with the crab. (And) when you see a turtle nest you need to make sure to move them closer to the sand dunes."

Jon: "Crabbing was my favorite. I learned that there is a shortage in animals now."

(Anonymous): My favorite part was catching blue crabs, because I don't get to do that often. I learned that we should be more careful on the beach."

Ocean Explorers Blog 5

2011-07-15T11:16:00.000-07:00

Today our Ocean Explorers wrapped up their week of adventures and penned the last entries in their log books. Let's see what they had to say:

Andrew: "I went to the new Megalodon exhibit. I liked it because there was a movie. We also went to the top of the big tank and saw the fish."

Caleb: "I liked going to the fossil pit because I found some teeth and crushing plates. I also took care of the sharks by feeding them squid and mackerel and other fish."

Charlie. "I liked going to the Megalodon exhibit. It was the biggest shark I have ever seen."

John: "My favorite thing was looking in the fossil pit."

Ben: "We took care of jellyfish. They eat brine shrimp."

Kelly: "I liked seeing the Megalodon because I wanted to see how big it was. We also learned that we have to feed the sharks at the same time as the other fish but at a different place in the big tank."

Lauren: "I liked finding things in the fossil pit, and we got to got to go the top of the Cafe Fear Shoals tank."

Louis: "I liked the fossil pit because it was full of fossils and teeth."

Hunter: "The Megalodon jaw was as big as me. We also learned about horseshoe crabs. We put them in quarantine and fed them fish and squid."

Ian: "I always like the touch tank."

Jacob: "We went behind the scenes in the Shoals tank, and we learned what a one-hour firewall is for."

Bobby: "We went behind the scenes. My favorite part was the laboratory."

Justin: "I liked the tour of the aquarium. Got to see a fish called a jackknife fish."

Hannah: "My favorite was Cape Fear Shoals, and learning how they get fed -- with scatter feeding and target feeding."

CJ: "Megalodon was my favorite exhibit. The jaw is so big."

Ocean Exporers Blog 4

2011-07-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

Day FOUR, another full day for our eleven- to twelve-year-old Ocean Explorers. Let's have a look at what they wrote in today's log-book:

Justin, "My favorite animal-keeper activity was feeding the stripers. They were in like a frenzy. We also fed the octopus."

Avery, "I liked going to the beach because I like to swim. Later we took care of fish. We had to feed them."

Caleb, "My favorite was feeding the fish and the octopi. We fed them fish and other food."

Hunter, "Feeding the octopus was my favorite animal-keeper activity. We learned that the stripers need to be fed every day to stay healthy."

Ian, "My favorite animal keeper was Rich. He told us everything. Feeding the sharks was fun. Especially the huge sandbar sharks."

Louis, "I liked finding shark teeth today. I found about 20."

John, "I fed the seahorses some brine shrimp. I liked playing in the ocean ... riding my boogy board was really fun."

Charlie, "We took care of sharks today. They needed medicine in their food."

CJ, "My favorite animal today was Wilson the Wood Duck, because he is so funny."

Hannah, "I enjoyed going to the beach. We went boogie boarding and took a nap. : ) We also took care of fish, including spade fish."

Jacob, "We fed fish behind the scenes. We saw baby spade fish."

Lauren, "I liked feeding the seahorses. We fed them bring shrimp. They suck it up there, because their mouths don't open."

Kelly, "I liked feeding the seahorses. We had to choose different [food] sizes to make sure they all stay healthy."

Bobby, "My favorite was going to the beach and surfing (boogieboarding) on waves. We also took care of some fish and got to feed the big sharks, lookdowns, permits and more."

Andrew, "I liked making salt water because I like helping the fish. I fed the spade fish."

Ben, "I learned that freezing the animals' food keeps them healthy because it kills the parasites."

Be sure to check tomorrow's blog to find out what the Ocean Explorer's do on their last day of camp!

Ocean Explorers Blog 3

2011-07-13T12:08:00.000-07:00

Today was the third day for our 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers. Let's see how they enjoyed their day...

Lauren, "I fed the big sharks and it was really fun. I think they liked their food."

John, "I fed sand bar and sand tiger sharks."

Ian, "My favorite keeper was Marc because he said everything about the sharks. My favorite activity was feeding the sharks."

Justin, "My favorite animal keeper activity was feeding big sharks because I liked how they would rip the food apart."

Hanna, "My favorite activity today was going to the beach. I went body surfing and it was fun."

Hunter, "I liked the big sharks because you got to feed them and see them splash."

Caleb, "My favorite activity was feeding the sharks. Some of the sharks didn't cooperate and splashed us."

Bobby, "We took care of sand tiger sharks and sand bar sharks. We got a female sand tiger to eat because she hadn't eaten in a week."

CJ, "I liked feeding the sharks because it was awesome."

Ben, "We took care of sharks that have only been here for a week and gave them medicine."

Avery, "I liked going to the beach. The beach is one of my favorite places to be because I like playing in the water."

Jacob, "My favorite activity was feeding the toads. It was my favorite activity because I have never seen them eat before."

Kelly, "I liked going to the beach, but I also liked feeding the sharks. I liked feeding the sharks because I have only done that one other time."

Andrew, "I liked feeding crickets because I like to see them jump around."

Charlie, "I liked Marc because he let me feed sharks."

Louis, "I liked feeding the bigger sharks because they splashed sometimes."

Check back tomorrow for another update!

Ocean Explorers Blog 2

2011-07-12T12:17:00.000-07:00

Today was Day TWO for the Ocean Explorers' Summer Day Camp at the Aquarium. Their blog entries describe a few of their favorite adventures:

Caleb, "My favorite animal-keeper activity was getting to change the water in the reptile tank. I also took care of frogs."

Ben, "My favorite activity was going canoeing to Zeke's Island, and we went crabbing. It was my favorite because I got to sing songs."

Justin, "The animal that I had to take care of today was a salamander. I had to clean their dirty water and keep them healthy."

CJ, "Today I helped take care of fish. Other fish is what we fed to the fish."

Hannah, "Today we took care of fish by making sure their water was not contaminated."

Charlie, "My favorite animal keeper was Michael, because he let us feed fish."

Louis, "Helping the salamanders, because I really want one."

Avery, "My favorite was canoeing. I liked canoeing because I like working as a team."

Andrew, "Checking the water, because we get to use cool stuff to check the water."

Ian, "My favorite keeper was Michael, because he told us about the types of food. I liked feeding the fish."

Jacob, "I saw a blue angelfish. I took the pH level and the salinity level."

Bobby, "Feeding the fish and ... canoeing to Zeke's Island."

Hunter, "Holding the snakes, because they were so smooth."

Kelly, "I took care of striped bass. I had to cut up all of the fish and I had to throw the fish food in the tanks to take care of them."

John, "I cut up fish and something else for freshwater fish."

Lauren, "Seeing the animals eat the food, because I like them to be healthy."

REMEMBER, OUR CAMPERS WILL BE BUSY AGAIN TOMORROW, SO BE SURE TO CHECK BACK!

Ocean Explorers Blog 1

2011-07-11T12:26:00.000-07:00

Today kicked off our fourth week of summer camp for our 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers. Let's see what our new explorers had to say about their first day...

CJ, "Today we took care of fish. Each fish had a certain food they they had to eat."

Caleb, "My favorite activity was feeding the sharks but feeding the animals at the Rocky Outcrop was fun too."

Charlie, "Today I took care of snakes, frogs, and turtles. I needed to keep my hands clean."

Andrew, "The Rocky Outcrop was my favorite activity because I like finding shells and fish and other things."

Bobby, "I liked the Behind the Scenes because I got to feed and touch."

Justin, "My favorite animal keeper activity was feeding small sharks because the sharks teeth were cool when they were getting the food."

Avery, "Today we took care of sharks. They had to get fed, entertained, and they needed space to swim."

Hunter, "I liked feeding the shark because it was fun to see them jump."

Louis, "I liked behind the scenes because we fed the sharks."

Hannah, "Today we fed sharks and we had to try to get all of them some food."

Jacob, "Today we fed the sand tiger sharks. We had to point feed them."

Ben, "My favorite activity was Behind the Scenes. I held amphibians, touched snakes, and met turtles and gators. It was way cooler than the regular exhibits."

John, "I took care of the animals in the quarantine tanks by feeding them."

Ian, "Katy was my favorite animal keeper because she told us everything. Going behind the scenes was my favorite activity because we saw gators, fish, snakes and turtles."

Kelly, "I liked feeding the animals behind the scenes. My group got to feed the quarantine tanks. I liked it because not everyone gets to do that."

Lauren, "My favorite activity was feeding animals because we got to feel some animals too."

Check back tomorrow for another update from our campers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 5

2011-07-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

Today was the last day of camp
for our ten- to twelve-year-old
"Ocean Explorers."

What will they remember?

Here are entries from their
daily journals:

Kelsey, "Today I learned that fish scales are made of spongey bone and keratin."

Courtney, "I liked touring the Aquarium."

Abby, "My favorite was when we went to the Oceans classroom and made recycled fish."

Helena, "We saw the big tank. You need to have lots of filters."

Cat, "We fed octopi yesterday."

Gage, "Looking at the sea horses."

Devann, "Touching sand crabs. (They were slimey.)"

Mary, "I really liked the megaldon exhibit."

Brandon, "I wish I had a pet megladon. My favorite animal is an octopus."

Erin, "I liked seeing the private dive show."

Kylee, "Touching the animals in the touch tank because you got to pick them up and feel cool creatures."

Spencer, "My favorite was feeding the sharks cause it was fun."

Maddie, "I liked going to the big tank and watching the diver clean it. I would want to do that in life too."

Ocean Explorers Blog 4

2011-07-07T12:29:00.000-07:00

Today was day four for our 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers as they learned about taking care of animals. Let's see what they said...

Gage, "We got to feed the octopus and we fed them shrimp and ice cubes so we could see them work at it."

Kylee, "My favorite activity was finding the touch tank because we got to touch all the creatures."

Reagan, "I thought touching the shark was fun because it was cold."

Danny, "My favorite activity was petting the snake."

Spencer, "Today we took care of the jellyfish. Feeding them was required to keep them healthy."

Maddie, "I liked when we cut up the fish and fed them to the touch tank because it was a new job."

Kelsey, "My favorite activity today was feeding horseshoe crabs because it was fun being able to do that."

Mary, "I liked going to the beach. It was fun even though I got trampled by a wave, the counselors helped me get out!"

Courtney, "My favorite activity was feeding the touch tank. We got to hold animals."

Brandon, "Today we took care of fish. We had to make the water good for them."

Erin, "My favorite activity was going to the beach. We were diving under and jumping over like 20 ft waves. Awesome!"

Devann, "Touching the snake was my favorite thing because they felt weird."

Helena, "I liked feeding the octopus because they are smart."

Abby, "My favorite activity was when I fed the touch tank animals fish and squid (fresh)."

Cat, "My favorite animal keeper activity was petting and learning about snakes and turtles."

Check back tomorrow for our final update from this group of Ocean Explorers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 3

2011-07-06T11:57:00.000-07:00

Today was day 3 for our 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers. Let's see what they had to say...

Courtney, "We took care of the sharks by giving them the right food and vitamins."

Abby, "My favorite activity was when we fed sushi to sand bar sharks. I liked it because it was fun."

Brandon, "We took care of tiger sharks. They require the right food to keep them healthy."

Kelsey, "My favorite activity today was feeding sharks because it was interesting seeing and interacting with them."

Spencer, "Today I fed a shark. The right food was required to keep them healthy."

Reagan, "I think the beach was my favorite activity because I swam in the water."

Mary, "Going to the beach was fun but the waves were so big!"

Erin, "Today we fed the sharks again, but this time we put vitamins in their food."

Kylee, "Today I took care of the sharks. They require food, clean water, and vitamins."

Cat, "I loved feeding the sharks because sharks are cool and dangerous!"

Maddie, "I liked feeding the sharks because it was fun watching them open their mouths!"

Danny, "Today I learned that to take care of sharks, you need to feed them and give them vitamins."

Alexia, "I loved feeding the sharks because sharks are awesome and interesting."

Devann, "Today we fed baby sharks. They were competitive. I liked the female sandtiger shark the best."

Helena, "My favorite activity was feeding the sharks because I love sharks."

Gage, "I liked going to the beach. I liked the beach because I like to tan and run around in the sand."

Check back tomorrow for another update from our campers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 2

2011-07-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

Today was day two for our 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers. Let's see how they enjoyed their day...

Devann, "My favorite thing we did during the Animal Keeper was watch Jill the boy octopus."

Kylee, "My favorite activity was swimming in the swimming hole because I got to ride with the current."

Helena, "My favorite activity today was taking water samples."

Spencer, "My favorite activity today was washing the filter because it was easy."

Abby, "I did take care of animals: corn snakes and so on. I cleaned boxes and bags and kept them busy."

Alexia, "I liked holding the snakes because they were soft and fun to hold."

Cat, "My favorite animal keeper activity was when we checked the water in the Behind the Scenes tank."

Kelsey, "My favorite activity was when we canoed to Zeke's Island and played there."

Gage, "Swimming in the swim hole was my favorite activity."

Reagan, "I liked testing the water because it made me feel special and important."

Erin, "I liked feeding the octopus and jellyfish. For the octopus, we put shrimp in ice and they ate it!"

Courtney, "I would say my favorite activity was feeding the snakes. It was AWESOME!"

Maddie, "I liked when we tested the water pH and salinity because it made me feel like I worked there."

Danny, "My favorite activity was when we fed the moon jelly."

Mary, "I liked when we learned how to hold a snake."

Brandon, "My favorite activities were the octopus and a whole day swimming!"

Check back tomorrow for another update from our campers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 1

2011-07-05T09:39:00.001-07:00

Yesterday kicked off the third week of our Ocean Explorers summer camp. Let's see what our 10-12 year old explorers said about their first day.

Gage, "Today I worked with sandbar sharks. I helped feed them."

Kylee, "My favorite activity was feeding the sharks because it was an awesome experience."

Kelsey, "My favorite thing I did today was feed the sharks because it was cool watching them get fed, but even cooler to feed them."

Reagan, "Today I worked with the sand bar sharks and I helped the aquarist."

Brandon, "I fed the sand bar sharks. That was my favorite activity."

Mary, "I really liked going to feed the sand bar sharks. It was fun to learn about them and what they eat."

Courtney, "Today I worked with sharks. We had to feed them and cut up fish."

Danny, "I fed the sand tiger sharks. That was my favorite activity."

Abby, "My favorite activity was when we made recycled paper for our nature journals. I liked that activity because it was fun and it was recycled."

Alexia, "I helped feed the fish and I saw them eat REALLY fast."

Spencer, "The animal I worked with was the shark. I helped to feed them. My favorite activity of the day was lunch."

Maddie, "My favorite activity was dropping the food in the tank and watching the fish attack."

Cat, "I helped feed fish behind the scenes. I got to feed bass. We fed the fish at shark tooth ledge."

Helena, "I worked with sharks today. I also cut up fish for bass."

Devann, "Today, I worked with sharks. There were six sharks. I also went to the salt marsh to catch blue crabs. Nobody caught anything."

Erin, "Today, I worked with Sand Bar sharks!Our other duty was to feed them. We also went to the salt marsh, but I liked the sharks waaayyyy better!"

Ocean Explorers Blog 5

2011-07-01T10:41:00.000-07:00

It was the final day of camp for our second group of 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers. Let's see how they enjoyed their day...

Brendan, "I learned that some types of jelly fish stings don't hurt."

Cameron, "My favorite activity was going to the beach and swimming. We saw a pod of dolphins!"

Cassidy, "I learned that black skimmers skim the water for fish."

Nikolas, "My favorite activity was going to the beach."

Savannah, "I learned that prey is not at the top of the food chain."

Sachi, "My favorite activity was going to the beach."

Katelyn, "Today, Ocean Explorers went to the beach. I found about 15 mole crabs. I also saw two groups of dolphins."

Elena, "I liked going to the beach."

Mat, "I learned that plants can be predators such as flytraps."

Look back next week for updates from our third group of campers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 4

2011-06-30T12:26:00.001-07:00

It's day four for our 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers! Today's adventures included canoeing and a Behind the Scenes look at the Cape Fear Shoals. Let's see what our campers had to say...

Nikolas, "I liked crabbing the most because I enjoy catching fish."

Brendan, "I learned that certain predators have special adaptations to catch their prey."

Corbin, "My favorite activity was getting to see the turtles. I liked it because I learned that the turtles on land have a round shell and the ones in the water have a flat shell."

Cameron, "I learned that a turtle is both a predator and a prey."

Cassidy, "My favorite activity was going up to the top of the Cape Fear Shoals tank."

Sachi, "My favorite activity was going behind the scenes."

Savannah, "My favorite activity was going canoeing because I was helping."

Katelyn, "Today Ocean Explorers went canoeing. We saw Zeke's Island and swam. It was amazing."

Elena, "My favorite activity was being on top of the big tank."

Mat, "My favorite activity was going canoeing."

Check back tomorrow for our final update from our second group of campers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 3

2011-06-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

Day three was an exciting one for our 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers. Let's see what they learned...

Mat, " I learned that alligators had adaptations."

Savannah, "My favorite activity was touching the alligator because it was cool."

Corbin, "I learned that even if you kill one thing in an environment, it can mess up the whole food chain."

Katelyn, "Today, Ocean Explorers went on a tour of the entire Aquarium. We also met squiggles the alligator."

Cameron, "My favorite activity was going outside and playing games."

Nikolas, "My favorite activity was playing predator and prey games outside because I love sports!"

Sachi, "I liked making the shirts and looking for shark teeth."

Elena, "I learned all about alligators!"

Cassidy, "I learned that alligators have bones that protect them called scutes."

Brendan, "I learned that alligators all have special adaptations."

Check back tomorrow for another update from our campers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 2

2011-06-28T12:07:00.000-07:00

Day 2 for our second group of Ocean Explorers found our 10-12 year old campers recycling paper, and going behind the scenes to learn more about the Aquarium and the animals that live there. Let's hear what our campers had to say...

Corbin, "The octopus was my favorite part because it did a whole bunch of tricks."

Sachi, "My favorite activity was going behind the scenes. I liked it because we got to see all the animals."

Brendan, "I learned that a lion fish has a new predator."

Savannah, "I learned that a duck is both predator and prey."

Cameron, "I learned that humpback whales have a predator called a cookie cutter shark."

Cassidy, "My favorite activity was when Miss Jen brought out Wilson the wood duck and we went to the conservatory. I also liked going to the beach."

Elena, "We learned about ducks and how they lose their feathers."

Nikolas, "I liked going to the beach because we all had the most awesome time."

Katelyn, "Today, Ocean Explorers went to the beach and Behind the Scenes. It was very fun! At Behind the Scenes, we saw tiny seahorses and an octopus."

Mat, "My favorite activity was going to the conservatory."

Look back tomorrow for another update!

Ocean Explorers Blog: Week 2

2011-06-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

Our second week of summer camps has officially kicked off. Let's see what our second group of 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers had to say about their first day...

Nikolas, "I learned that most animals are predators and prey."

Elena, "My favorite activity was making animals you get to make up."

Corbin,"My favorite activity was going to the beach. We got to see animals on and under the rocks."

Brendan, "I learned that there are many types of predators and prey. I also learned what they eat."

Cameron, "I learned that the corn snake is prey."

Katelyn, "Today Ocean Explorers went to Rocky Outcrop and I found a broken shell. We also got to see and pet a corn snake."

Mat, "I liked making clay animals because we made up our own."

Cassidy, "I learned that herrings eat baby alligators."

Savannah, "I learned that predators eat the fish and prey do not."

Sachi, "My favorite activity was making the clay animals. I liked it because we could be creative."

Check back tomorrow for another update from our campers.

Ocean Explorers Blog 5

2011-06-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

Today was the final day of camp for this summer's first group of Ocean Explorers. Let's see how they enjoyed their day...

Sara, "I learned that moray eels are actually blue."

Kay-Kay, "I learned that sharks are very much apex predators."

Ross, "My favorite activity was probably touring the area because I can see all the stuff."

Alex, "I liked catching the large minnows when we were at Rocky Outcrop."

Jack, "I learned that nothing eats eels but us."

Carmen, "I liked going to the Rocky Outcrop. We did not see much but we still had fun."

Ella, "Today I learned that sharks seem like they want to eat me."

Emerson, "I learned that Megalodon's eat whales!"

Charlie, "My favorite activity was the private dive show because it was only for campers."

Anna-Poe, "My favorite activity was the dive show because they told us things we had never heard before."

Bekah, "I liked eating cake and going on the tour."

Check back next week for updates from our second set of Ocean Explorers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 4

2011-06-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Day 4 of summer camp found our 10-12 year old campers exploring Behind the Scenes and making predators and prey out of clay. Let's see what our Ocean Explorers learned...

Charlie, "My favorite activity was viewing the Cape Fear Shoals tank from above, but making the predators and prey out of clay, the fossil pit, squiggles the alligator, and the beach were close."

Sara, "I learned that crocodiles eat caterpillars (when young). We had fun making up predators and prey by making up creatures with clay.

Anna-Poe, "My favorites were looking behind the scenes and the beach because it was fun and cool!!"

Jack, "Fossil finding was my favorite activity because I found shark teeth."

Bekah, "Going behind the scenes for the big tank and making clay animals were my favorite activities."

Emerson, "I liked it when we met squiggles. We even got to touch him. And, by the way, squiggles is an alligator."

Alex, "I liked digging a hole for fish instead of them being in the cooler."

Ella, "My favorite activity today was making clay figures. I enjoyed this because I like making up unique creatures."

Carmen, "Today I learned about animals. They are either prey or predators."

Kay-Kay, "Today I learned that every food chain has an apex or top predator and mosquitoes like to eat us (especially me)."

Ross, "I liked looking at the dive tank because it was cool seeing fish of all kinds together peacefully."

Check back tomorrow for another update from our campers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 3

2011-06-22T12:06:00.000-07:00

Day 3 of our Ocean Explorers summer camp was a blast! Our campers were boogie boarding and making book covers from recycled paper as they continued to learn about predators and prey. Let's see what they had to say...

Carmen, "I loved boogie boarding and just playing around on the beach because all my friends were here."

Charlie, "I liked everything today from the Behind the Scenes Tour to the beach, the paper-making to the movie. It's been the greatest day so far."

Emerson, "I learned that baby alligators are a prey to many things."

Anna-Poe, "My favorite activities were the beach and the saltwater tour and Wilson the Duck because they're fun!!!"

Kay-Kay, "I have two favorite activities. 1) Going to the beach and fighting waves. 2) Going to the saltwater Behind the Scenes. I just love sharks."

Ella, "Today I learned that Sandbar sharks stay by the sandbar because the fish swim around that area."

Ross, "Meeting Wilson and Behind the Scenes were my favorite activity because I like seeing things in real life."

Bekah, "My favorite was meeting Wilson the wood duck."

Alex, "I like the boogie boarding because I always hit the big waves."

Sara, "I learned that wood ducks eat acorns . Wilson the wood duck taught us about ducks too."

Jack, "The beach because the big and little waves were fun."

Check back tomorrow for more updates from our campers!

Ocean Explorers Blog 2

2011-06-21T12:06:00.000-07:00

Day two found our 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers canoeing and having a blast as they continued to learn about predators and prey. Let's see what our campers had to say...

Ross, "A single animal can eat a lot of things, bad things included!"

Anna-Poe, "The predator is bigger than the prey but can be smaller."

Sara, "My favorite activity was exploring Zeke's Island. We canoed there and went swimming."

Alex, "I like swimming in the hole. (It's hard to swim with shoes!)"

Kay-Kay, "I learned that dead fish attract birds."

Ella, " My favorite activity today was canoeing and playing at Zeke's Island. I enjoyed this because I really enjoy acting crazy and playing in water."

Emerson, " I like canoeing to Zeke's Island and crabbing and catching fish with nets. I caught 6 crabs, 2 hermit crabs, and 3 fish."

Charlie, "My favorite activity was Zeke's Island because the water was so calm and nice and there was so much cool wildlife."

Bekah, "I liked when we went canoeing to Zeke's Island. We crabbed fished and swam."

Jack, "I learned that small crabs can't eat fish."

Carmen, "My favorite activity was swimming and catching crabs at Zeke's Island. I liked that because it was just so fun."

Keep checking back for more updates from our campers!

Ocean Explorers Blog

2011-06-20T12:37:00.000-07:00

Monday kicked off the 2011 NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher Summer Camps. See what our 10-12 year old Ocean Explorers had to say about their first day!

Sara, "My favorite activity was going to the marsh and letting periwinkle snails slither on my hand."

Emerson, "I like crabbing and net fishing at the marsh. I caught a fish and some gross shrimp."

Bekah, "I learned about the food web."

Anna-Poe, "I learned that the predator eats the prey."

Alex, "On the first day it was crabbing. I was partners with Ross and Jake and we caught a fish and a baby crab."

Kay-Kay, "I enjoyed the freshwater conservatory tour because we got to see all these living things that come from North Carolina."

Carmen, "Today I loved catching crabs because I had a good partner. We caught two crabs (wow!)"

Charlie, "I learned that in the food chain, plants are called producers and animals are called consumers."

Ella, "I learned that plants are the main producer of the food chain."

Ross, "The conservatory was my favorite activity because you can look at the animals in real life instead of looking at pictures."

Jack, "Swimming was my favorite activity. I need to practice!"

Keep checking back for more updates from our campers!

Junior Volunteers Earn Experience

2011-06-17T12:57:00.000-07:00

All employers seem to want job candidates with “experience.” In today’s competitive job market, experience counts more than ever. But how can a young person get it?

Sometimes, VOLUNTEERING is the answer. Volunteering can be a valuable educational experience for young people seeking to broaden their horizons and beef up their resumes. Offering time and services to an organization an opportunity for hands-on experience in specific tasks as well as an inside look at how an organization operates. That’s important, because employers screen job applicants based not only on the amount of experience they have, but also how applicable that experience is to the job in question.

At the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, Junior Volunteers interested in marine biology assist Aquarium staff in daily tasks needed to keep the Aquarium running smoothly. Junior volunteers not only gain valuable work experience, they also have fun. And volunteering at the aquarium is an opportunity to be active and productive on weekends and during long breaks from school; Junior Volunteers are never bored!

For more information, check out the NC Aquarium’s website, or the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s Junior Volunteer Facebook page.

Aquarium Spreads Awareness for World Ocean Day

2011-06-07T07:06:00.000-07:00

The ocean sustains us, regulates our climate, and provides a place for fun and relaxation. Why not return the favor? Take a special day to honor the great body of water responsible for so much life on the planet.

Celebrate World Ocean Day. The annual eco-friendly holiday will take place on Wednesday, June 8, and the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher plans to celebrate with some special programs. In accordance with this year’s theme Youth: The Next Wave for Change, the schedule includes an interactive Geodome presentation for eighth grade students in the Aquarium’s auditorium at 1:45 PM. Aquarium guests can also view a special “Plastic Reduction” display with informative ways to reduce the use of plastic in our lives.

Guests may also explore carts with various themes set up around the Aquarium, including sea turtles, whales and dolphins, shells, and marine debris. The Nature Swap will be set up from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM where visitors can trade their own discoveries for other treasures found in nature such as shells, shark teeth, snake skins, or fossils.

World Oceans Day is held every June 8th, and is coordinated by The Ocean Project (theoceanproject.org) and the World Ocean Network (worldoceannetwork.org). For more information, including a comprehensive list of events locally and globally, please visit the website of World Oceans Day (http://worldoceansday.org).

Aquarium Welcomes Interns

2011-05-31T07:48:00.000-07:00

This summer at the aquarium we have seven interns joining the education team. Outreach and Husbandry also have an intern as well. The Education Interns get to assist the education staff with a variety of programs for the public. In addition to improving presentation skills, these interns assist with program development to add to the department’s selection of offerings. Other opportunities include exhibit interpreters for the Touch Tank and Let’s Talk Turtle Exhibit, small group tour guides, smart carts and presentations, and classroom activities. The education interns have been spending their first two weeks learning the ins and outs of the education department. Today they were animal handling trained with our invertebrates. This is what Echo had to say:

Today, Jocelyn, Whitney, Kyle, and I received invertebrate training from Melissa and Matt. Melissa showed us the invertebrate holding tank which contained horseshoe crabs, echinoderms, crustaceans, and snails. We learned to keep the animals in separate tanks because some of them eat each other, such as the Florida Horse Conch (Pleuroploca gigantea). We also learned the importance of cleaning your hands in between exhibits to prevent the spread of diseases. After we completed the first part of invertebrate training, we proceeded to learn how to handle the moon jellies with Matt. Matt showed us how to properly pick up a moon jelly from its tank. He explained that we need to lift the jelly out of the water upside down so that the bell acts as a bowl holding water so no air bubble get trapped. I am excited to handle the invertebrates here at the aquarium and eager to learn more.

From L-R: Echo, Jocelyn, Whitney, and Kyle

When Helping Hurts

2011-05-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

It is not uncommon for outdoor enthusiasts to come across grounded and seemingly helpless baby birds this time of year. Unfortunately the best of intentions can often do more harm than good. The best advice for people who stumble upon baby birds is to simply leave them alone.

Humans who decide to care for a baby bird may not completely understand the amount of care required for the animal to live. Young birds need to be fed every 15-20 minutes from sunrise to sunset. They also require essential skills to survive in the wild. Learning to avoid predators and where to search for food are abilities only a bird’s parents can teach. Perhaps the most obvious con to raising a bird is the fact that the animal will form a close bond with humans instead of their own species. Such animals are no longer fearful of humans once released back into the wild.

If the amount of work and potential harm are not enough to deter humans from attempting to “help” baby birds found out of the nest, there are a few more facts to consider before allowing guilt to affect our actions. A bird’s nest is a dangerous place for the youngsters as it is practically an open buffet for any predator. Therefore, the baby birds will try to leave the nest as quickly as they can even if they are not quite ready. It is common for them to fall to the ground and spend several days there as they continue to grow and prepare to fly. If you spot one, keep in mind that the parents are most likely very nearby and simply waiting for you to leave. For further reading please visit:

http://spwrc.org/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=16

http://www.birds.cornell.edu/crows/babycrow.htm

Tips to Combat Air Pollution

2011-05-11T08:05:00.000-07:00

In an era of complete dependence on fossil fuels it comes as little surprise that one of the greatest environmental concerns facing society today is that of air pollution. While it may appear to be a concern only in major cities around the country, the problem also exists here at home. A study recently published on webmd.com listed Charlotte, NC as the tenth smoggiest city in the United States with residents citing asthma, headaches, and a host of other health related problems.
While the dangerous and potentially disastrous effects of global warming seem almost a cliché amongst environmental conversation, there are small steps families can take to reduce their environmental footprint. For example, doing errands in bulk will spare a busy family constant trips and costly gas. Accelerating gradually and using cruise control on the highway are helpful tactics to getting more mileage out of your gas. Properly inflated tires and clean air filters may also save an individual’s air quality and fuel costs.
Fortunately, it does appear that the world is waking up to the very real danger posed by the use of fossil fuels. Ongoing developments and continued research are at the forefront of strategic plans for automobile companies and political administrations alike. Small steps on an individual level, however, are also important. Such measures can save our lungs as well as our wallets.

Aquarium Displays Local Art

2011-05-05T11:10:00.000-07:00

The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher is pleased to announce the latest showcase in the Spadefish Gallery. Andrea Dingeldein, an Aquarium employee, moved from the Piedmont of North Carolina to Wilmington six years ago to attend University of North Carolina Wilmington. While pursuing degrees in Marine Biology and Studio Art, she found a way to combine her passions by creating paintings inspired by marine organisms, artifacts, and coastal landscapes.

Andrea often paints landscapes on site, or “en plein air,” capturing the seasonal
changes of salt marshes and the flora and fauna inhabiting them. Though oil and acrylic paints are her mediums of choice, she is also interested in photography.

Surface and Subtidal is a collection of recent paintings inspired by
imagery characteristic of the coast, and includes several underwater
photographs from a recent trip to Bonaire. Each piece is a study of natural beauty, color, and structure, with subjects ranging from live oaks and tidal creeks to squid and horseshoe crabs.

Works are for sale and can be purchased by contacting the artist directly at polaroidsarefun@gmail.com.

The Spadefish Gallery at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher showcases local artists throughout the year. Artwork that coincides with the Aquarium’s mission of “Inspiring Appreciation and Conservation of North Carolina’s Aquatic Environment” is located on the second floor of the Marine building, near the auditorium.

Aquarium Hosts 5K Race

2011-04-19T13:05:00.000-07:00

Aquarium Hosts Third Annual 5k Race

Kure Beach, NC – Environmentally conscious athletes came out in droves this weekend to support a local initiative. The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher is proud to announce the success of its annual 5k Race for the Planet on Sunday, April 17, 2011. WECT Meteorologist Colin Hackman served as the emcee for the event which took place at the Aquarium and featured over 300 participants.

Overall winner and Carolina Beach local Shawn McKee finished the race with a time of 17 minutes and 29 seconds. Erin Hogston completed the race as female overall winner with a time of 19 minutes and 35 seconds. Male masters winner Alex Bonnington finished with a time of 21 minutes and 34 seconds. Female masters winner Jacqueline Billings finished with a time of 26 minutes and 24 seconds. A complete list of race results can be found on the Wilmington Roadrunners website at: http://www.wilmingtonroadrunners.org/raceresults11.asp.

All participants received an eco-friendly numbered bib embedded with wildflower seeds that can grow once the bib is planted. Winners received clay medals created with the help of Hiroshi Sueyoshi of the Cameron Art Museum as well as rain barrels, paintings, and gift cards.

The Aquarium at Fort Fisher would like to say a special thanks to all of our volunteers, participants and sponsors for their help in facilitating this event. Sponsors and donors included: Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Wellness Clinic, Cameron Art Museum, The Casserole, CVS, Chili’s, Chuck E. Cheese’s, Food Lion, Fort Fisher State Historic Site, Gold’s Gym Longleaf Mall, Got to Be NC, Harris Teeter, Lowe’s Foods, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Moe’s Southwest Grille, NC Aquarium Society, Omega Sports, Pepsi, Port City Java, Rain Water Solutions, RedFlagSurfStudio.com, Sam’s Club, Snapdragon, Screen Print, SandyBands, Sea Witch Cafe & Tiki Bar, Somatic, Target and the Wilmington Area Woodturners Association.

Megalodon at the Mall?

2011-04-14T07:53:00.000-07:00

Visitors to the Crabtree Valley Mall in Raleigh have been pleasantly greeted by a six foot tall Megalodon shark jaw since September 2010. In a matter of weeks that jaw will be packed up and shipped south in preparation for the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s new exhibit Megaladon: Diving with North Carolina’s Ultimate Predator.

Similar to modern day sharks and rays, Megalodon was a cartilaginous fish. The only remaining scientific evidence from this extinct predator is teeth. Ranging in length from four to six inches, the teeth indicate that this animal was massive, approximately 50-60 feet.

The Aquarium’s replicated jaw has an interesting story. The original Megalodon teeth were found in Aurora, NC – a full set. Megalodons had four rows of teeth. Most Megalodon models use two or three teeth molds repeated on each row. This jaw is made from molds from the complete set: four rows of each individual tooth.

The jaw will soon be displayed in a new interactive exhibit scheduled to open at the Aquarium in mid-June. The various artifacts and fun features of the display will allow visitors an opportunity to test their shark smarts as they learn about the extinct predator of the deep. Aquarium visitors will also learn more about modern day sharks which face similar threats and how important these species are for healthy ocean ecosystems.

Megalodon ruled the sea from 20 million to about two million years ago. Climate change during this time may have caused their extinction by altering the migratory routes of whales, which was the food of choice for Megalodon.

Medicine Drop

2011-03-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

In today’s culture, creating a healthy environment is a priority for many people. As a society we value recycling, carpooling, and turning off the lights when we leave a room. One critical step towards a cleaner environment is often overlooked.

In the past, most people flushed old medicines down the toilet. This was done to prevent accidental poisonings of children and animals who may find medicines in the trash. But today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) no longer recommends this. Improper disposal of medicines allows the chemicals to contaminate ground water as well as the public water system. Sewage treatment plants may not be able to clean all medicines out of the water. This may harm fish and wildlife.

If throwing medicines away is not the answer, and we cannot just leave them sitting around the house, then what should we do with them? Enter Safe Kids North Carolina. You can dispose of your unused and expired medications during the second annual Operation Medicine Drop. Bring your medications to Pender Adult Services on 901 S Walker Street in Burgaw or the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Medical Mall, 2243 S. 17th St., located beside the main hospital Saturday, March 26 between 9:00AM and 1:00PM.

Your medications will be safely disposed of, without any negative impacts on the environment. Law enforcement agencies as well as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will be present to handle controlled substances. Herbal medications and vitamins will also be accepted.

Trail of Spray

2011-03-09T11:47:00.000-08:00

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s Spadefish Gallery newest showcase is an exhibit entitled “High Surf Advisory” featuring works created by world acclaimed artist, Gary Cleaveland with Red Flag Surf Studio. Cleaveland is a self taught artist who uses the rhythm of ocean tides as his muse to create sensational works of art.

Cleaveland catches the raw beauty of waves using an array of non-traditional mediums. He captures deep blues, vibrant turquoises and crisp whites by using cans of ordinary spray paint. This exhibit showcases a stunning collection of original, recently completed, large-scale, wave paintings. Works are for sale and can be purchased by contacting the artist directly at www.redflagsurfstudio.com. “High Surf Advisory” will be on exhibit March 1 - April 28, 2011.

The Spadefish Gallery at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher showcases local artists throughout the year. Artwork that coincides with the Aquarium’s mission of “Inspiring Appreciation and Conservation of North Carolina’s Aquatic Environment” is located on the second floor of the Marine building, near the auditorium.

Enjoy the beach...take your litter with you!

2011-02-21T06:52:00.000-08:00

You enjoyed a day at the beach. The seabirds were diving, dolphins jumping and you even managed to catch a couple of nice-sized fish. You pack up and leave behind, an empty foam cup, a plastic water bottle, 12 inches of twisted fishing line and a half-buried, plastic bag. Have you ever wondered what happens to the litter you leave behind?

Aside from its unsightly appearance, litter ultimately ends up in the ocean. Litter negatively affects marine animals in two ways, ingestion and entanglement. Many marine animals confuse ordinary litter with food and eat it or they become tangled in pieces of fishing line or gear. Whether eaten or entangled, litter causes infection, starvation and death for many animals.

Sea turtles don't know the difference between a floating plastic bag and a jellyfish, their favorite food. If eaten, a plastic bag may cause a blockage in the stomach resulting in starvation and death. A seabird may mistake a small piece of styrofoam for food, ingest it and ultimately starve and die. Pelicans can become entangled in a piece of discarded fishing line, restricting movement and flight. These animals may starve, drown or become severely injured from ordinary litter left on the beach.

The Sea Turtle Foundation estimates that 1 million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals and turtles die every year from ingesting or becoming entangled in ocean litter. So, enjoy the beach and remember to take your litter with you. By guest blogger Debi Haynes Photo courtesy snre.ufl.edu

Love is in Bloom

2011-02-09T18:40:00.000-08:00

Love is in the Air........

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and time is ticking away to purchase a gift for that special someone. Candy, jewelry, and cards are always a safe option, but this year, think outside the box. Sending a bouquet of flowers every Valentine’s Day gets stale. Flowers are quite the gesture, but there are other options than spending an absorbent amount of money for flowers that will just die in a few days. Bet you didn’t know that “when you inhale the sweet smell of a store-bought flower, you are also inhaling up to 127 different types of chemicals used on commercially-grown flowers, many of which are banned in the United States” according to the Organic Consumers Association.

Consider an alternative approach to show your sweetie how much you care by purchasing flowers that you both can plant together. Nothing says “I love you” like something that will live on long past Valentine’s Day! If you’re really industrious you can start these flowers from seeds yourself. Otherwise, consider purchasing bulbs or flowers from your local nursery or farmer’s market. Like the flowers, your love will blossom and continually grow through the seasons.

(Image: Victor Love Flowers)

World Wetlands Day

2011-02-02T12:59:00.000-08:00

Today we celebrate not only Groundhog’s Day, but it is also World Wetlands Day. Declared in 1971, countries around the world gathered to sign the Convention on Wetlands, an intergovernmental treaty and the first eco focused convention. Since then, on February 2nd activists all over the world unite and proclaim the benefits of wetlands around the world.

What are wetlands?

Many consider wetlands to lie in the surrounding coastal areas, however a wetland is any area of land where water covers a solid area that can range in various size, and can last years or just a few months. The embodying water can be still, flowing, fresh or salty. In North Carolina, wetlands are home to many plants and animals that rely on each other for food and shelter. Overall ,wetlands are the most valuable and productive ecosystems on the earth that provide food, shelter, and are areas for nurseries or buffer zones for animals breeding.

How to protect wetlands in North Carolina?

Pollution, urban encroachment and, partial drainage has strained the degradation of our wetlands. To help protect these valuable sources on our coast is a difficult task, however there are programs across the state that protect and support wetlands and the wildlife that you can participate in. Volunteer with the many watershed or conservation groups across the state, or work with a community group that take on a wetland to preserve. Plant native plants in your yard and limit the use of fertilizers and pesticides that pollute our neighboring waterways to the lakes and oceans.

Image from www.airheadscuba.com

Recycle & Reuse Unwanted clothes

2011-02-01T09:32:00.000-08:00

Spring is slowly starting to make a presence, as is the time for spring cleaning. Beyond scrubbing the house from top to bottom what can you do about all those unwanted clothes that seem to have acquired permanent residence in your overstuffed closet and drawers? Recycle them! It may seem a little strange, but you recycle cans, newspapers, water bottles, and now clothing has become another item.

Do your part to be green and consider a few of these options:

A) Host a clothing swap- Invite your friends over, and ask that everyone brings items in good condition that they no longer want or have grown out of, by the end of the evening, you and all of your friends will have new items to add to your evolving wardrobe. Leftover items can be donated to a specific charity.

B) Consignment shops: Earn extra money to purchase some of spring’s latest fashions by taking unwanted clothing to local consignment shops in your town.

C) Textile art: If it seems you can’t part with that blouse because it has such a fantastic pattern or color, but the blouse has parted with you, there are a few options. Cut the sleeves off and take the body portion of the blouse to make a pillow. Visit a local craft store to purchase embellishments such as fringe, lace, ribbon, to enhance your newest home décor. If you have several pieces that you cannot part with, consider cutting patches of the clothing to make a blanket, or quilt. This is perfect for moms and or grand moms who want to save their children/grandchildren’s clothing through the years but simply do not have the space for the budding size change. Think creatively!

D) Consider the item: There are several items in your closet that can find a new home with some simple internet research. There are a variety of programs across the country that takes items to be reused or reshaped in another way. Nike’s Reuse-A-Shoe takes older sneakers in any condition then uses the rubber from the soles to make athletic playground surfaces such as interlocking gym floor tile and track surfaces.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection agency, “Reusing items or making them with less material decreases waste dramatically. Ultimately, fewer materials will need to be recycled, combusted for energy, or landfills.” So while sorting through your large collection of clothing, consider the options. You never know what items can have a new creative twist in your wardrobe collection.

Image from kitchenmagic.com

Aquarium Honors Volunteers

2011-01-28T12:55:00.000-08:00

In 2010, 370 volunteers donated their time, talents and energy to the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, contributing over 27,000 hours. On January 27th, the Aquarium honored its outstanding volunteers at the annual Volunteer Appreciation and Awards dinner. Volunteers who donate their time in a variety of departments were honored and Dan Bennett, of Wilmington, NC was awarded the Volunteer of the Year award.

Bennett, who works for Ellerbe Phone Company, often spends his vacation days at the Aquarium volunteering his time wherever and whenever needed. From educating visitors about touch tank animals to setting up tables and chairs for an event to dressing up as a sea turtle for a holiday parade float, Bennett ensures every Aquarium visitor, employee and fellow volunteer’s experiences are unforgettable. Volunteer Coordinator Suzanne Holtzclaw says, “Dan Bennett truly exemplifies what the Aquarium stands for and many lives have been enriched by his joy, kindness, and compassion.”

2010 Departmental Volunteer of the Year recipients:

Special Events Volunteer of the Year: Donna Budd
Operations Volunteer of the Year: Jerry Mayer
Horticulture Volunteer of the Year: Elizabeth Tomason
Aquariology Volunteer of the Year: Judy Larrick
Dive Volunteer of the Year: Harold Wilson
Education Volunteer of the Year: Kendyll Goeman
Junior Volunteer of the Year: Jacob Rose
Volunteer with the Most Hours: Echo Woodsford (500 hours)

*Photo: Volunteer Coordinator Suzanne Holtzclaw with 2010 Volunteer of the Year Dan Bennett

Save Money, Plant a Tree!

2011-01-25T09:02:00.000-08:00

Rent textbooks and save money, all while putting a smile on Mother Nature’s face! On Chegg.com students can sell and rent textbooks for cheaper as well as help restore the environment. For every book you rent, Chegg.com will plant a tree in your honor. Currently over four million trees have been planted. The website allows you to search for the books you need, sell books you no longer use, and save hundreds of dollars; which in most college student’s eyes is a huge bonus! For more information about the website or to rent a textbook and help keep nature beautiful visit www.chegg.com.

Swapping Nature for Nature

2011-01-03T05:52:00.000-08:00

Need a reason to get outside? Participate in the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s Nature Swap by first exploring together outside. Do you find objects in nature, such as interesting shells, bones, egg cases, rocks, pine cones and other treasures? If you enjoy exploring natural areas such as beaches and forests, and collecting found treasures, come to the Aquarium to share and swap.

Nature Swap showcases natural objects, such as shark teeth, skulls, and shells. You can learn more about natural objects from Aquarium staff by examining their collection, and by bringing in your own finds. And, you can acquire points for your treasures to use in trade for another item of equal or lesser value. If something rare catches your eye you can accumulate points by bringing different items until the value you cache equals the item of interest.

Nature Swap provides a great reason to explore outdoors however, you are encouraged to do no damage while collecting treasures, and to follow a few guidelines established by the Aquarium:

Earn points for each item you bring, for a maximum of 3 items per day.
Earn extra points for doing some of your own research on the item you found.
Your item must be cleaned and in good condition.

Acceptable items to bring to the Nature Swap include: clean bones, antlers, teeth, claws, skulls, snake sheds and eggs (found in nature), sand, interesting rocks, fossils, invertebrate molts, eggs cases, shells, casts of animal footprints, preserved plant parts, and pine cones.

Items that the Aquarium will not accept for the Nature Swap program include: objects from the Aquarium grounds, bird parts, feathers, eggs, nests, alligator parts or mounts, live plants, sea turtle parts, or marine mammal parts.

Look for Nature Swap table across from the Touch Tank. Aquarium members can participate in Nature Swap again and again with free Aquarium admission. Non-members must pay admission to access Nature Swap for each trade.

Walk Down the Aisle, Leaving No Footprint Behind

2010-12-30T08:17:00.000-08:00

Make your wedding day even more special by putting a smile on Mother Nature’s face while celebrating your big day! Creating a green wedding is simple, fun, rewarding, and will allow you to take your first steps as a married couple without leaving a large footprint on the Earth. Below are a few tips on how to make your wedding more environmentally friendly:

~ Flowers: Flowers are transported long distances or flown in for weddings. To reduce the amount of fossil fuels used to create the perfect bouquet, try using flowers and greeneryfrom family and friend’s gardens. Using flowers from a relative or friend’s garden will not only keep the cost of your flowers down and give your flowers a special meaning; it will also help reduce the environmental impact of your special day.

~ The Vehicle: Limousines can guzzle gas by the minute, opting to use an older car that has been converted to diesel fuel is an excellent idea to spice up your wedding day and help fight gas emissions. Try renting a vintage car, such as a Mercedes or Bentley, which will keep you looking luxurious but minimize your effect on the planet.

~ Invitations: Invitations are a necessity, but why waste paper when you can create your own personalized website for people to learn all about your impending nuptials? Another idea to help save on paper involves using recycled paper and using the back of the invitation as the envelope. Websites such as recycledpaper.com offer several options for recycled paper. Also, use soy and vegetable oil based ink instead of regular ink to help reduce the amount of petroleum used in your wedding planning.

~ Food and drinks: Purchase organic, locally sourced foods whenever possible for your big day. Buying local will not only help the small businesses in your area, it will also cut the cost of food transportation. Choose catering options that buy local produce and serve organic products in order to make your event more eco-friendly. Using organically produced foods uses 15% less energy. Serve local beer and wine at the reception, research wineries and breweries in your area and use their products for your special occasion.

~ Dress: The dress is the most important and stressful parts of wedding planning for the bride. Instead of purchasing a new dress, purchase a vintage dress or wear a dress that has been passed down from your family. If you are set on buying a new dress, find companies who use organic fabrics and “peace silk”, which is made from silkworms that live out their life cycle.

~ Gifts: Most couples already have all the household items they need, so many are opting to have guests donate money to their favorite environmental charity. Couples can set up an online account with most charities allowing guests of the wedding to make donations to a chosen organization.

~ Honeymoon: Taking the perfect honeymoon can become expensive and stressful when trying to do research where to go, book flights, hotels, and take vacation time at work; instead of traveling out of the country, research exciting places around the United States that are within driving distance or a short flight from where you live. The United States has amazing and beautiful scenery waiting to be seen on your honeymoon. If you do fly, plant a tree upon your return to offset your fossil fuel use!

~ Ring: The perfect ring does not always have to be new, purchasing a vintage ring or a family heirloom can be just as beautiful and environmentally friendly as well. If you are going to purchase a new ring, make sure to research conflict free diamonds.

~ Confetti: Confetti contains dyes and bleaches which can have harmful environmental effects, try instead throwing linseed or sunflower seeds. As an added bonus, you can send you guests home with seeds they can plant themselves!

By using these environmental wedding tips, you and Mother Nature will be smiling brightly on your wedding day!

Aquarium Hosts Valentine Dinner

2010-12-29T11:47:00.000-08:00

Celebrate each other this Valentine’s Day at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. “That’s A Moray!” is an exclusive evening for just 26 couples, featuring a four-course dinner, a souvenir photo and dancing while surrounded by the magic of the ocean. Private tables for two will be placed in front of captivating exhibits such as Cape Fear Shoals, Sharktooth Ledge, Hawaiian Fishes, and Moon Jellies.

Couples may reserve the table/exhibit of their choice on a first-come, first-serve basis. For the private or engagement minded couple, one exclusive table boasts its own dining room and personal view of the Cape Fear Shoals Exhibit in the “A Moray” Eel Cave with elegant décor.

The evening’s menu, prepared by Thyme Savor Catering, will feature an appetizer of seasonal fruit, cheese, and crudité vegetables; Caprese salad; and choice of braised beef short ribs in chocolate sauce over red bliss smashed potatoes, Coq au Vin (classic French chicken dish) cooked in red wine with pearl onions, mushrooms and bacon over smashed potatoes or vegetarian entrée of homemade sweet potato gnocchi with julienne roasted vegetables in a champagne sauce. Afterwards, satisfy your sweet tooth with mini pastries. An extended beverage selection will be offered as well.

Afterwards, dance the night away to classic love songs played by Active Entertainment. Spend the night on the island: the Courtyard by Marriott - Carolina Beach (910 458-2030) is offering winter rates for the evening and the Aquarium will shuttle guests to and from this rendezvous point.

“That’s A Moray” is Monday, February 14, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. and dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m. The all-inclusive price is $200-$300 per couple, dependent on table location or $400 for the “A Moray” private dining room. For reservations, call (910) 458-8257, ext: 218 or 202 or email terry.bryant@ncaquariums.com or emily.bullock@ncaquariums.com.

A Picture Perfect Event…Under the Sea

2010-12-23T07:48:00.000-08:00

Looking for the perfect place to have your dream wedding, holiday party, prom, or other special event? Look no further, the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher is just the place for you! The Aquarium is available for rental during and after-hours. The spacious facility can accommodate up to 250 seated or up to 2,000 strolling guests and your event can be held indoors or outside on the nature inspired garden deck.

Finding the perfect location to hold a wedding or special event can be a time consuming project, which can hinder the planning process from progressing forward. Let the Aquarium’s special events department make it easy for you to host your special event.

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is one of the most enchanting places to hold a fairy tale wedding under the sea or a holiday party sure to have people talking all year long. Your special day will be held among breathtaking fishes and exotic animals that create a magical underwater atmosphere. Guests can be seated in front of the 235,000 gallon Cape Fear Shoals exhibit, which harbors an assortment of magnificent fish and aquatic life. Activities such as, the touch tank or a dive show can be added to make your event even more memorable.

The Aquarium, which was just voted a 2011 “Best of Wedding” vendor by The Knot magazine, is now offering a 10% discount for events everyday other than Saturday. Events held by government agencies, schools, nonprofit organizations, and several other organizations may be eligible for a discount on their rental.

The Aquarium also offers a smaller space for meetings, awards ceremonies, and lectures. Treat your guests to a unique experience as they explore the Aquarium before or after the event is complete.

For more information about renting the Aquarium visit: www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher/rent-the-aquarium.

Time for Turtles on the Two’s!

2010-12-22T08:15:00.000-08:00

It is time to celebrate turtles…all year long! The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher will be promoting Partners in Amphibians and Reptiles Conservation’s (PARC) 2011 Year of the Turtle by offering special turtle programs the second day of every month starting on January 2, 2011.

Turtles on the Two’s will focus on turtles, both freshwater and saltwater species. The Aquarium’s feedings, live animal encounters, crafts and educator interactions will look at different aspects of turtle’s lives and will be available throughout the day. Visitors will gain a better understanding about turtles, and see why these shelled animals are so loved at the Aquarium!

The US has more turtle biodiversity than any other country on the planet, but turtle population worldwide have declined up to 40%. Turtles face threats including, habitat loss and degradation, mortality from roads and predators, exotic invasive species and disease, and climate change. PARC, which is an inclusive partnership dedicated to the conservation of reptiles and amphibians believes that citizens, natural resource managers, scientists, and the pet and food and related industries can work together to address issues and to help ensure long-term survival of turtle species and populations. In an effort to raise awareness about turtles and their importance in the world PARC and organizations, such as the Aquarium, will be promoting the Year of the Turtle all year long!

Taking on the Climate

2010-12-20T08:36:00.001-08:00

For Megan Ennes, educator at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the environment is always on her mind. While completing her master’s degree at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, Megan decided to create a project that would take on the mysteries of our ever changing climate. She is working with Coastal America and four students from Isaac Bear Early College High School in Wilmington, North Carolina. She and the students have been invited to the Coastal America 3rd Student Summit in Washington D.C. in April where they will present their completed project. For the summit, an action plan associated with the third ocean literacy principle: “The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate” had to be created. Megan’s team focused their project on how the changing climate also impacts the oceans. The team will be looking at unique habitats in the Wilmington area and how they will be affected by sea level rise, changes in precipitation, and other climate related factors.

The team has been on several trips to visit diverse habitats and learn about the threats that each habitat faces. They have toured the Cape Fear River with Wilmington Water Tours, where they talked about sea level rise and salt water intrusion. They met with professors from UNCW to discuss the importance of barrier islands, problems they are facing, climate change, and the importance of the maritime forest on Bald Head Island and what lies ahead for them with the increase in sea level. The group also met with the Cape Fear River Watch to discuss why the river is so vital to the area. The team’s latest trips have been to the Aquarium at Fort Fisher, where they learned about cold stunned sea turtles and different aquatic environments, and to Holly Shelter, where they learned about longleaf pines and endangered species in the area.

All of these trips have been building up the minds of the students whose ultimate plan for this project is to create a video about what climate is, how it might be changing, what impacts we could see in the Wilmington area, and what we can do to help. The film will be premiered after its completion and the ticket sales will benefit a local marsh or estuary, since a healthy habitat is one of the best ways to offset the problems associated with climate that will impact the Wilmington area.

The completed project will be featured at the summit in Washington D.C. in front of 19 other student delegations and members of congress. Following the summit, the students will create a proclamation for Congress about actions they believe is necessary to take in order to manage the problem of climate change.

For the students working on the project, this experience has been an extreme eye-opener. They are learning new information about their local area that they weren’t aware of before. Megan most enjoys seeing the light bulbs turn on in the student’s minds as they go through this journey.

In the end, the project will yield an excellent educational tool for schools to use in an effort to discuss climate change with their students. For further information about the project visit: http://www.capefearstudentsummit.blogpsot.com/ or http://www.capefearstudentsummit.wikispaces.com/.

Nature Swap

2010-12-17T10:44:00.000-08:00

Nature Swap showcases natural objects, such as shark teeth, skulls, and shells. You can learn more about natural objects from Aquarium staff by examining their collection, and by bringing in your own finds. And, you can acquire points for your treasures to use in trade for another item of equal or lesser value. If something rare catches your eye you can accumulate points by bringing different items until the value you cache equals the item of interest.

Nature Swap provides a great excuse to explore outdoors however, you are encouraged to do no damage while collecting treasures, and to follow a few guidelines established by the Aquarium:
~Earn points for each item you bring, for a maximum of 3 items per day.
~Earn extra points for doing some of your own research on the item you found.
~Your item must be cleaned and in good condition.

Acceptable items include:
~Clean bones, antlers, teeth, claws, skullsSnake sheds, eggs, and rattles (found in nature)Sand, interesting rocks, fossils, invertebrate molts, eggs cases, shellsCasts of animal footprintsPreserved plant parts, pine cones

Items the Aquarium won’t accept include:
~Items from the Aquarium grounds
~Bird parts, feathers, eggs, or nests
~Alligator parts or mounts
~Live plants
~Sea turtle parts
~Marine mammal parts

Look for Nature Swap across from the Touch Tank. Aquarium members can participate in Nature Swap again and again with free Aquarium admission. Non-members must pay admission to access Nature Swap for each trade.

The Aquarium Comes to You…with a Discount

2010-12-16T08:20:00.000-08:00

Can’t find time to make it to the Aquarium? Let it come to you! The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher is offering a 10% discount for outreach programs held during the months of January and February.

Outreach programs are perfect for schools, civic groups, churches and festivals. Fun filled education programs include live animals, props, costumes, and hands on activities that create a memorable experience for all ages.

Each interactive program is designed specifically to fit your needs based on age, size, and focus of your group. Preschool and daycare programs are designed to foster appreciation of the environment, and are tailored to shorter attention spans. Elementary, middle, and high school programs are created to fit North Carolina state science requirements. Middle and high school programs can be tailored to fit specific curriculum needs. Special needs programs give children with disabilities the opportunity to experience the outdoors without the challenge.

Book an outreach for the months of January or February and receive a 10% discount on your program. New themes have been added to the list of programs, including Jammin’ Jellies and Wild Wetlands. During Jammin’ Jellies participants will learn about one of the most numerous animals in our waters and find out about the important role they play in their ocean habitat. Participants will explore the jelly life cycle through interactive activities and props, and even get to meet some live critters in the Cnidarian family! During the Wild Wetlands program groups will meet some of our North Carolina wetland inhabitants and find out why it is so important to protect this unique habitat. This program includes live wetland animals, such as a wood duck, alligator, snake, turtle, and bullfrog.

For further questions or to book an Outreach program, contact 910-458-8257 ext. 236 or via email at NCAFF.outreach@ncaquariums.com.

Aquarium Honors Employees

2010-12-10T08:42:00.000-08:00

The N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher honored its employees this month by awarding its annual Sea Star and FISH™ Philosophy awards. These awards honor a permanent, temporary or seasonal state or society employee that has gone above and beyond their usual job responsibilities to make the Aquarium a better place to work and visit.

Hap Fatzinger, Aquarium curator won the Sea Star award and Exhibits Technician Chad Goodson was awarded the FISH™ Philosophy award. Employees are nominated by their peers and are awarded $250 from the N.C. Aquarium Society, a recognition plaque, dinner for two at Carolina Ale House or Jack Mackerels, and recognition in Aquarium News magazine.

FISH™ Philosophy award nominees included: Angie Leary, Emily Bullock, Eric Holtz, Heather Gaunt, Jennifer Metzler-Fiorino, Monica Dudley and Nancy Peterson. Sea Star award nominees included: Chad Goodson, Tom Coit, Jennifer Metzler-Fiorino, Joanne Harcke, Monica Dudley, Suzanne Holtzclaw, Terry Bryant and Terry McNeel.

The recipient of the Sea Star award is given to an Aquarium employee for outstanding job performance at the Aquarium and service to the community. The recipient of the FISH™ Philosophy award is given to an Aquarium employee who has gone above and beyond to make the Aquarium a better place to work and visit by choosing a positive attitude, making co-workers’ and visitors’ days, playing, and being physically and mentally at work.

NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher is located just south of Kure Beach, near the mouth of the Cape Fear River, on U.S. 421. The site is less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s days). Admission: $8 Ages 13-61, $7 Ages 62 and up, $6 Ages 3-12, Free for children 2 and under, NC Aquarium Society members and pre-registered North Carolina school groups. General information: www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher.

Photo captain: Award winners Hap Fatzinger on the left and Chad Goodson on the right with Director Donna Moffitt.

That’s a Wrap: Green Style

2010-11-29T09:58:00.000-08:00

This holiday season the presents are flowing and the gift wrapping days are near, this year instead of using regular wrapping paper, try these new green ideas!

~ For a shiny look to your gifts try using recycled aluminum foil. Recycled aluminum foil gives your gift a nice green touch, yet still leaves your gift wrapping looking sleek and beautiful. To add an extra flare, tie hemp or recycled yarn around the package!

~Reusable gift bags or shopping bags are an excellent gift wrapping alternative that helps save the environment and you time! Reusable bags can be found at any store and are generally cheaper than wrapping paper. Reusable bags have also become extra stylish, you can now find bags in all different shapes and colors, try finding a bag in the shape of a present!

~One unconventional and modern way to wrap your gifts that not only makes you look awesome, but also helps protect the environment is using old city or topographical maps. Maps are large enough to use as wrapping paper and add extra pizzazz to your gift. Your friends will love this new age and environmentally friendly way to wrap your presents.

~If you plan to top your presents with a beautiful bow this year, try instead a compact florescent light bulb. Give the gift of a reduced carbon footprint and a lower electric bill by tying in a sustainable light bulb!

~Another way to top your gifts without using a bow is to use Mother Nature’s little presents, such as feathers, autumn colored leaves, or shells. Make your holiday gift stand out by placing a natural item on the outside as a present garnish!

~Instead of wrapping your present, use a present to enclose your gifts! Use a mixing bowl or mixer as a gift container to fill with cookbooks and kitchen utensils. Fill a locally painted flower pot with seeds and gardening tools for your friend who loves to garden. Stuff a hiking backpack with items such as reusable water bottles and socks for your family members that love the great outdoors!

~Newspaper may get a bad reputation as being cheap, but this year change the way people look at newspaper wrapping paper by adding images from magazines, comics, your favorite children’s book, or antique books. Not only will this wrapping paper be a friend to the environment, it is sure to get rave reviews from your family and friends!

~If you decide to use wrapping paper, make sure to recycle the paper afterwards at your local recycling center. Make sure to remove the tape from the paper before recycling and check to see if the center accepts wrapping paper.

This holiday put a smile on your friends and family’s faces as well as Mother Nature’s face by using alternative ways to wrap your gifts!

Today is the Day America Recycles!

2010-11-15T08:34:00.000-08:00

Today, November 15 is America Recycles Day, a small step that can have lasting effects by making recycling work in your community. America Recycles Day is the only national recognized day dedicated to the promotion of recycling programs in the United States. This day is recognized as a day to inform, educate, and get your community motivated to start recycling! Since 1997 America Recycles Day has been promoting the organization of events to promote recycling, as well as spreading the word about the benefits of recycling. So in honor of America Recycles Day; organize an event or group recycling program in your community, teach a neighbor about the benefits of recycling, and make sure to take the pledge; the pledge to spread the word about saving our environment one recycling container at a time!

The America Recycles Day pledge can be found at: http://www.kab.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ARD_Pledge

Here are a few places to recycle: public recycling at the Moose Lodge, located at 4610 Carolina Beach Rd., Wrightsville Beach Recycling Center, located at 321 Causeway Dr., or contact Green Coast Recycling- at 910-471-7747 for pickup.

The Art of Real Life

2010-11-08T12:53:00.000-08:00

“A sincere artist is not one who makes a faithful attempt to put on to canvas what is in front of him, but one who tries to create something which is, in itself, a living thing.” This quote by artist William Dobell expresses perfectly the work of art that muralist Scott Nurkin has created at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

For three weeks beginning in October, Nurkin has taken an unnoticed wall on the outside of the Aquarium and turned it into a breathtaking masterpiece. A mural along the conservatory wall in the Aquarium’s garden features a marsh theme, including a blue heron wading in the water and pelicans flying overhead. This masterpiece allows visitors to take a walk through a treasured habitat without actually stepping foot in a marsh. Soon the mural will set the mood for children to play in the natural playground that will be located in front of the artwork.

Nurkin, who was trained in classical painting at the Lorenzo di Medici School in Florence, Italy, credits his talents to Michael Brown, a Chapel Hill muralist whom Nurkin interned with for four years after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio painting and drawing. Nurkin says he has been painting and drawing since he can remember, and has always known art would be a major aspect of his life. In 2004 Nurkin created his company, Nurkin Arts, which provides several areas of art-related services, including murals.

Nurkin credits the environment surrounding the Aquarium as his inspiration for the awe-inspiring mural. Nurkin’s largest muse came after his visit to the salt marsh near the Aquarium. He says, “If the temperature and timing is right, everything in the mural could literally be found within a five mile radius of the Aquarium.”

Aquarium Director Plans Retirement

2010-11-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

After a varied career in state government which began in 1979, Donna Moffitt is relinquishing the helm as director of the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher on December 31. Following tenures in various government departments and divisions including Office of Marine Affairs, Division of Community Assistance and Division of Coastal Management, she joined the Aquarium family in 2004. Interestingly, when the North Carolina Aquariums shifted from Marine Resource Centers to Aquariums in 1986, she was integral in creating the original administrative rules.

Since 2004, Moffitt has weathered everything from new exhibit construction to hurricanes. The Exotic Aquatics gallery, which opened in 2005, brought unusual species like cuttlefish, lionfish and sea snakes from around the world to the Aquarium for the first time. In 2009, the Aquarium’s lobby underwent a major expansion with improved visitor access and a waterfall feature. Luna, a rare albino alligator, also made her home at the Aquarium that year. Under her leadership, Aquarium attendance soared from 403,000 to 445,000, a 10% increase over just six years.

“It has been a pleasure for me to have been director for seven years and to see tangible evidence of how much we’ve accomplished together. This staff does more with less than anywhere I’ve worked. I am excited about what the future holds for the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, particularly the Aquarium Pier in Carolina Beach,” Moffitt said about her tenure at the Aquarium.

Throughout her career, Moffitt was recognized with numerous awards. She was nominated for the Governor’s Award of Excellence in 1991 and awarded the 1997 Director’s Award of Appreciation. In 2009, the General Federation of Women's Clubs of North Carolina awarded her with a Women of Achievement Award and she was recognized as the April 2009 Aquarium Director of the Month by the Zoo and Aquarium Visitor website.

Moffitt holds a Bachelor’s degree in environmental design and a master’s in landscape architecture from North Carolina State University. She went on to earn her juris doctorate from the School of Law at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was also a Loeb Fellow in Advanced Environmental Studies at Harvard University.

In her retirement, Moffitt plans to travel more with her husband Tom. She will continue to serve the community as an appointee to the New Hanover Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors. “My ultimate goal is have lots of time for myself after being in the work force 40 years,” she said with a laugh.

“Donna Moffitt has provided exemplary leadership for the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Her vision and ability to energize staff have moved the Aquarium to a world class facility. Donna’s talents will be missed,” NC Aquariums Division Director David Griffin said.

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is a major tourist attraction on the Cape Fear Coast. The other two North Carolina Aquariums are at Pine Knoll Shores along the Crystal Coast, and on Roanoke Island near the Outer Banks. Together, the three rank among the state’s most-visited attractions each year.

The Greener way to a Cleaner Boat

2010-10-22T07:39:00.000-07:00

With colder waters moving in many are preparing their boats for hibernation during the winter months. It is suggested that each year boaters power wash and repaint their boats to reduce the amount of algae, barnacles, and other marine life that settle on the bottom of the vessel causing a reduction in fuel efficiency. Although this yearly duty is necessary, it is extremely harmful to the environment. Power-washing a boat not only removes the barnacles and algae, it also removes the old anti-fouling paint, which contains heavy metals including copper that are highly toxic to marine life. The water that drains from the boat during the power-washing process often drains into waterways and other properties. To help reduce the toxic drainage caused from this necessary process, one Wilmington based company has created a system to treat the wastewater and remove the heavy metals.

Clean Marine Solutions developed the Vanish 300 Marina Power Wash Wastewater Treatment and Recycle System, which helps reduce the amount of toxic materials being drained into our waterways and other bodies of water. The company began producing this machine after they received an $84,600 North Carolina Green Business Fund grant. The machine can be purchased by marinas and businesses in the area where boaters bring their vessels to be cleaned.

Currently, Specialty Boat Works in Wilmington is one of the only companies to own the Vanish 300. The business collects the wastewater on a pad and then pumps it into the Vanish 300. The chemicals in the machine break away the heavy metals, which sink to the bottom of the tank and are removed and sent to the landfill. Water that is polluted with copper from power washing is 69,000 times higher than what the federal Clean Water Act allows, with the Vanish 300 this number is reduced down to normally levels. So next time you go to clean your boat, make the green choice!

The Return of Trick or Treat Under the Sea

2010-10-21T10:29:00.000-07:00

Looking for somewhere to have a spppooo-tacular time for Halloween? Search no further, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher has just the event for you! The Aquarium will be hosting their most popular event of the year, Trick or Treat Under the Sea on Wednesday, October 27 and Thursday, October 28 from 5:30pm - 8pm.

Trick or Treat Under the Sea offers fun for the whole family! Dress up in costume (no masks for adults, please), rake in the candy and play games with prizes. Enjoy face painting, story-telling, two magic shows per night entitled “Pirates Have Problems” by No Sleeves Magic Camp and haunted gardens. Spooky divers will be haunting the big tank throughout the night!

This year the classrooms will be submarine/deep ocean themed. Visitors can join the Fresh Water Wonders “crew” to play games and win prizes before they dive deep into the ocean. Glow-in-the-dark jellies and other deep sea creatures will be there to hand out treats. This family-friendly room offers a few special tricks and a chance to visit the deep blue sea!

At the end of your experience you will be offered the chance to take the path of ‘scaredom’ through the Haunted Gardens where creatures of the night are waiting to frighten you one last time. An alternative route is also available for families who choose not to take the haunted path.

Tickets are $6 each and 2 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 910-458-8257 ext. 238 or at the door the night of the event. Umbrella strollers only. Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Be green and bring your own trick-or-treat bag!

Conserving Coral

2010-10-06T10:09:00.000-07:00

Coral reefs are one of the many beauties of the Earth, yet they have been drastically depleted over the years in order to create coral based jewelry and home décor. Coral, which provides homes for fishes as well as provides medicinal compounds that are lifesaving, are fighting to remain healthy and plentiful. A long-term survival campaign has been created by a group of scientists, jewelers, and ocean conservationists who are dedicated to protecting coral. SeaWeb, an ocean-conservation group has created “Too Precious to Wear”, a campaign theme devoted to decreasing the coral trade. Environmental advocate and filmmaker Celine Cousteau places her focus and voice on promoting the benefits of conserving these precious animals. Jewelers such as, Temple St. Clair and Michael Kowalski abide by a “no coral” policy when it comes to their jewelry making. Scientists are working to find ways for coral to thrive and grow with global climate change and our growing ecological footprint. All of these people are fighting to save coral because our oceans are so valuable and we must help sustain the web of life that occurs within it.

A Moment to Share

2010-09-29T07:49:00.000-07:00

For Linda Kuharcik making art has been a lifelong journey. Since she was a child, Linda has always had the urge to draw and a love for art. Her devotion to the craft is now on display in the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s Spadefish Gallery, and will be featured until November.

Linda’s work is mainly representational and showcases various forms of media. Her work features illustrations of buildings and scenes, as well as animals. Her adoration of nature is shown through her photography, which captures wildlife and the environment in its most rare state.

Linda says, “There is beauty everywhere. Photography, as in art captures the feeling of that one moment in time that I experienced, through photography I can share that wonder with someone else.”

Linda believes art is more than photography because she can alter a photograph to match her personal perception. She has recently delved into combined media, where she mixes photography, watercolor, and tissue paper. This process, she says, has allowed her to be freer in the creative process. Linda also uses glass in her art and loves the feeling it brings to the finished product.

Linda says, “I feel great joy when creating something out of what appears to some to be nothing. That’s art.”

The Spadefish Gallery at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher showcases local artists throughout the year. Artwork that coincides with the Aquarium’s mission of “Inspiring Appreciation and Conservation of North Carolina’s Aquatic Environment” is located on the second floor, near the auditorium. Artwork is available for purchase by contacting the artist.

It’s Camp Time!

2010-09-23T10:39:00.001-07:00

Need something to do with the kids while on their fall break? Sign them up for the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s Reptiles and Amphibians AquaCamp! AquaCamp is a day long, fun-filled camp where children can interactively learn about aquatic animals and the environment.

During the Reptiles and Amphibians AquaCamp campers will learn about the similarities and differences between these two types of animals. Campers will get an up close look at reptiles and amphibians including, turtles, salamanders, and alligators. Live animal presentations and more are all part of this exciting program.

Reptiles and Amphibians AquaCamp will be held Thursday, October 14 from 8:30AM - 3:00PM.

This year the Aquarium is offering limited transportation from the Monkey Junction area to and from AquaCamp. Each camp will provide children with a snack. Campers will need to bring a bag lunch. Camp fee is $40.00 per participant. Pre-registration is required. For more information visit our website at www.ncaqauriums.com/fortfisher.

Freaky Friends Are BACK in Town

2010-09-09T10:18:00.001-07:00

Get ready for the spookiest time of the year with the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher! The Aquarium’s popular educational Outreach program entitled “Freaky Friends” has returned this year. Meet North Carolina natives, such as snakes and sea urchins, whose costumes and acting skills help them survive the wild. Get up close and personal with a glass lizard and a soft-shelled turtle, which are always a sight to see! Participants will learn about these silly and sometimes spooky creatures through a variety of activities and hands-on experiences.

The Freaky Friends program is available throughout the month of October. The cost for a small group presentation is $100. Outreach programs are perfect for schools, day cares, civic groups, churches and festivals. Each interactive program is designed specifically to fit your needs based on age, size, and focus of your group.

For more information or to book an Outreach visit www.ncaquariums.com/fortfisher/outreach or call the Outreach Coordinator at 910-458-8257 ext. 236.

The Adventures of the Odyssey

2010-09-03T10:40:00.000-07:00

The Gulf Coast oil spill has widely affected the ocean’s ecosystem. Numerous organizations are working to clean up the aftermath as well as study the animals and plants that inhabit the waters and surrounding land. Ocean Alliance has been studying the effects of the oil spill on whales and other ocean life. The group has been conducting an ongoing research expedition in the Gulf of Mexico aboard the Odyssey, where a team of scientists have made their way down the east coast from Portland to the Gulf. The team has been collecting biopsy samples from whales to test for ocean contaminants, such as oil and dispersants. The team will remain on the Odyssey for five weeks continuing to collect samples and plan to return in the spring as well as the next several years to collect more to research the contaminants that may work its way through the ecosystem and may not be evident currently.

Ocean Alliance recently created a new website that hosts information about the organization, research they conduct, as well as a blog, which focuses on their current expedition. The blogs are written by their science director, crew members onboard the Odyssey, and a graduate student helping with the program. The blog is an excellent way to stay updated on the team’s efforts and their findings.

Ocean Alliance is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1971. The organization collects data on whales and ocean life, with a special focus on toxicology, behavior, bioacoustics, and genetics. The group works with their scientific partners to inform educators and policy makers on ways to help keep our oceans beautiful. Ocean’s Alliance is concerned with the conservation of whales and all sea life, as well as human impacts on the marine environment. The group believes that conservation should be a ‘State of mind’ and that keeping society informed and active is a prerequisite for positive change involving keeping the oceans clean.

To learn more about Ocean Alliance or to read the Odyssey’s blog visit: http://www.oceanalliance.org/.

Saving Mother Nature One Drop at a Time

2010-08-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

Water is a precious resource that people as well as the Earth need to survive. Finding small ways to help conserve water in your household will not only decrease your energy usage, which saves you money, it will also help quench our planet’s thirst. Below is a list of inventive ways to show Mother Nature that you are saving water; she will be so proud!

1. When watering your lawn adjust your sprinklers so that your grass is the only thing being watered, instead of your house, car, sidewalk, and mailbox.

2. To minimize evaporation, water your garden and plants in the morning or late afternoon when the temperate is cooler and there is less sun.

3. Make sure to only run your dishwasher and clothes washer when completely full. Running your dishwasher with only three plates and one cup can use up to 1,000 more gallons of water a month.

4. Instead of planting your garden in the spring when the weather is becoming hot, try planting a garden in the fall when there is more rain and less heat.

5. If you are a big water drinker, keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the water for every cup of water you drink.

6. Opt to sweep the leaves and dirt off your driveway instead of hosing the area down to remove the excess debris.

7. When you are cleaning out your fish tanks, provide your plants with a healthy treat and feed them with the old nutrient rich water.

8. Each day allow yourself one drinking glass that can be placed on a towel and reused throughout the day in order to reduce the amount of glasses needing to be washed.

9. If your dishwasher is a newer model, try reducing the amount of rinse time since newer models rinse more efficiently.

10. Wash your clothes in cold water. It will save energy, water, and help keep the color in your clothes.

11. More plants die every day due to over-watering as opposed to under-watering; only water plants when necessary.

12. When filling your glass with ice, a cube may fall on the floor on occasion, instead of throwing the fallen cube in the sink or letting it find its resting place on the ground, use it to water a house plant.

Bonus Tips!

If your workplace does not already have a team in place to discuss ways to make the work environment more eco-friendly, try starting a group or making suggestions on ways your employer can save on water and energy. Above all, share your water conservation tips and ideas with friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, strangers, or maybe just anyone you think needs a water tip of the day!

Visitors Beam over Baby Box Turtles

2010-08-23T09:54:00.000-07:00

Baby animals of any kind are sure to put a smile on your face and box turtles are no exception. The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher has created a new exhibit starring five tiny turtles.

Baby turtles were a popular request from visitors, so Aquarium staff created a permanent exhibit within the existing box turtle exhibit to house the turtles, ranging in age from one to two years old. The baby box turtles are offspring from the adults on exhibit. The eggs were removed from the nest and placed in an incubator to hatch. Otherwise, if the babies hatched on exhibit, they hide so well, it is hard to find them to make sure they eat enough. The juveniles are fed a mix of fruit, vegetables, and turtle gel. They are also fed earth and meal worms for added nutrition.

Box turtles frequently call North Carolina home, and rarely move far after they have found a habitat. Female box turtles lay three to five eggs in a shallow nest dug in moist soil. In early fall or late summer the babies hatch. The Aquarium propagates and raises its own box turtles each year.

An Eagle Spices Up the Garden

2010-08-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher has added carnivorous plants to its lush gardens thanks to Jacob West, a junior volunteer at the Aquarium. The 40 square foot stone garden was built within the Aquarium’s garden, and houses several types of carnivorous plants.

Jacob West, a senior at Isaac Bear Early College High School in Wilmington, has always loved the Aquarium. This 17-year-old enjoys outdoor hobbies such as scuba diving, which led him to volunteer at the Aquarium for the last two years. During the completion of his Eagle Scout, the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting program of the Boy Scouts of America, West had to plan and implement a service project that benefits the local community. He knew immediately he wanted to pursue his Eagle project at the Aquarium. After clearing a 100 square foot area in the garden, Jacob constructed the stone garden where the carnivorous plants would be placed.

West is happy with the final outcome. “This new addition is something that visitors to the Aquarium will enjoy. I hope that since carnivorous plants are so special to this area that visitors will take the opportunity to learn about how unique and remarkable these plants are by visiting the garden,” he said. West recently completed all the requirements he needed to receive his Eagle Scout.

The garden now houses several diverse types of carnivorous plants, including yellow and purple pitcher plants, sundews, butterworts, and Venus flytraps, which are endemic to coastal North and South Carolina, mostly in the Wilmington area. Although widespread, carnivorous plants are rare. Carnivorous plants gain some or most of their nutrients from trapping and consuming insects and appear adapted to grow in places where the soil is wet, acidic and poor in nutrients.

Notice of Public Meeting

2010-08-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

The N.C. Division of Coastal Management (DCM) has received a request for grant funds from the Aquariums Division of the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR). The request is for monies from DCM’s Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Grant Program to assist with the acquisition of an approximately 18,750 square foot parcel of land at 234 Carolina Beach Avenue North (Parcel No. 3130-65-0927) along the oceanfront in Carolina Beach. The intended future use of the parcel is for construction of an Ocean Educational Fishing Pier.

The Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 20 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the Carolina Beach Town Hall, Council Chambers, to receive written comments for consideration by NCDENR. A representative of the Aquariums Division will make a brief presentation at the beginning of the meeting and answer questions.

This meeting is a “Public Meeting” and not a public hearing per 15A NCAC 07M .0306(g). Although a member of the CRC will be present to receive written comments, please note that the CRC will not act on or decide on the merits of the request. The CRC does not have the authority to approve or deny the N.C. Aquariums’ request; that authority rests with NCDENR per G.S. 113A-134(b).

A copy of the grant application is available for review at the Carolina Beach Town Hall, the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the DCM’s website at www.nccoastalmanagement.net and the Aquariums’ website at www.ncaquariums.com/aquarium-piers/carolina-beach.

Written comments on the CAMA grant application may be submitted via email to Mike.Christenbury@ncdenr.gov or US mail to Mike Christenbury, N.C. Division of Coastal Management, 127 Cardinal Drive Extension, Wilmington, N.C. 28405. Written comments must be received by Friday, Oct. 22 at 5:00 p.m. If you have questions please call Mike Christenbury at (910) 796-7426.

In a related matter, the Town of Carolina Beach and the N.C. Aquariums intend to enter into an official memorandum of agreement (MOA) about funding, development and construction of the Aquarium’s Ocean Educational Fishing Pier. Paper copies will be available for review at the Carolina Beach Town Hall and N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher. An electronic copy of the MOA may be requested from and written comments will be accepted by Tim.Owens@carolinabeach.org and Donna.Moffitt@ncaquariums.com until Friday, Sept. 17 at 5:00 p.m.

The Final Summer Camp Day has Arrived!

2010-08-16T08:39:00.001-07:00

As the Aquarium bids farewell to summer camp for the year, the ocean explorers reflect on their week of fun, fish, and adventures! Here is what they had to say:

Corbin, "My favorite part of this week was feeding the jellyfish! The jellyfish are clear but when it ate the food you could see the food in it."

Katherine, "The best part of this week was getting to feed the stingrays and seahorses. I learned how to tell the difference between male and female seahorses."

Marybeth, "My favorite thing in the week was going to the beach."

Matthew, "I learned about being a bunch of different types of biologists and fed organisms."

Mary Elizabeth, "The best thing I learned this week was that the Aquarium breeds their own seahorses."

Cameron, "I loved feeding the animals this week! I learned some new things this week."

Daniel, "My favorite thing was seeing the alligator behind the scenes. My second favorite was feeding the shark!"

Spencer, "This week I loved that we got to be animal keepers and my favorite part about that is that we got to watch them feed the sharks."

Charles, "This week my favorite part about being an aquarist was getting to clean the quail and pet Wilson."

Hanz, "This week I learned that being an animal keeper is hard work, but it is also fun!"

Jacob, "My favorite part this week was feeding the stingrays. My group went in front of lots of people and hand fed the cownose rays. This week was a lot of fun!"

Hanna, "Today I learned how to imitate an alligator and quail sound."

Alex, "My favorite part was feeding the stingrays."

Alana, "We learned how much fish are in the big tank."

Summer Campers Feed the Animals!

2010-08-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

On the fourth day of Aquarium summer camp the ocean explorers helped feed Aquarium animals. This is what they had to say about their experience:

Corbin, "Today I learned that jellyfish will sometimes lose their stingers. I learned that the Aquarium breeds their own jellyfish."

Marybeth, "Today we went to the beach, then we came back and had lunch. Then we wrote cards and fed the horseshoe crabs."

Alex, "I fed Shad to the catfish, sharks, and Mackeral. I learned that black shark's teeth are fossilized."

Daniel, "Today we fed sharks and catfish! It was awesome! I learned that sharks lose teeth when they eat. It was fun."

Matthew, "Today I learned that you have to be careful when feeding sharks because we got to feed them."

Mary Elizabeth, "Today we fed squid to the stingrays and horseshoe crabs in the touch tank. I learned how to tell a female and a male horseshoe crab apart. Males have little boxing glove pinchers and the girls don't."

Hanz, "I got to feed the stingrays and horseshoe crabs. I learned that horseshoe crabs don't use their pinchers for defense."

Alana, "Today I learned how to feed a stingray."

Katherine, "Today we got to feed the touch tank with the horseshoe crabs and stingrays. The stingrays used their mouths like suction cups to eat, and I learned how to tell a male and female crab apart."

Sophia, "Today I learned how to hold a horseshoe crab."

Charles, "Today I learned that box jellyfish can choose whether or not to sting."

Spencer, "Today we learned that box jellyfish can sting through thin wetsuits and we also got to see the new bonnet head sharks."

Cameron, "Today we went to the beach. We learned that jellyfish can control how they sting their prey. We saw new bonnet head sharks."

Ocean Explorers Become Animal Experts!

2010-08-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

On the third day of Aquarium summer camp the Ocean Explorers visited the salt marsh and learned how to feed several different animals. This is what they had to say:

Katherine, "Today we fed the seahorses and the salt marsh exhibit. I learned how to tell the difference between male and female seahorses. We fed the salt marsh exhibit squid, fish flakes, and little pellets. The seahorses got brine shrimp."

Charles, "I observed that rat snakes eat more mice than venomous snakes. I also learned that snakes like to consume their food head first."

Hannah, "I learned that jellyfish eat different stuff."

Matthew, "Today I learned that alligators are good climbers and Squiggles needs a new cage."

Cameron, "I learned that king snakes eat venomous snakes. Snakes like to eat their prey head first."

Spencer, "We learned that they have to work as a team to feed the venomous snakes."

Alex, "I learned that tree frogs can eat their food in less than three seconds."

Jacob, "Today I learned what different kinds of turtles eat. We also learned how fast frogs eat."

Hanz, "Today I learned to tell a boy seahorse from a girl seahorse!"

Daniel, "Today I saw an escaped alligator! It was in a water filter. We also saw frogs, lizards and turtles! It was fun!"

Alana, "Today I got to feed the jellyfish. It was fun."

Corbin, "Today I learned that king snakes eat venomous snakes, and the venom doesn't do anything. I learned that rat snakes eat alot."

Mary Elizabeth, "Today we learned that they breed their own seahorses and how to tell them apart. Then we fed the salt marsh exhibit fish pellets and fish flakes and chopped squid."

Marybeth, "Today we went to the beach. We swam and had fun. Then we came back and had lunch. Then we fed the jellyfish."

Sophia, "I fed the sea nettle jellyfish."

Day 2 as Animal Keepers

2010-08-10T13:46:00.001-07:00

Tuesday brought with it more times helping take care of the animals and more fun learning!

Sophia: We fed the seahorses.

Alana: Today I learned how seahorses eat.

Corbin: We went canoeing to an island. Today I fed fish and learned that when you feed them you can't just put it all in the same place. We made salt water using these big tubs of salt.

Alex: I learned that jellyfish eat by sucking up their food through tentacles.

Daniel: Today I cut up a fish and a bunch of other stuff. I learned that baby jellies can't hurt you and it was fun!

Jacob: Today my group fed jellyfish. First we cut up the fish. Then we put them in a blender and got out all of the water. We took it to the jellyfish and watched them eat.

Charley: Today I learned how to make a batch of saltwater and feed krill to fish.

Spencer: Today I learned as an animal keeper that the sand tiger and sand bar sharks have to be kept in two different tanks.

Cameron: I had a great time canoeing today. I was making salt water and I loved feeding the fish today.

Hannah: Today I learned that brown star fish (sea star) are smaller than other starfish.

Mary Elizabeth: Today we helped the animal keepers feed the snakes mice and fish blood worms. I learned that they get the mice frozen.

Mary Beth: Today we went canoeing. Then we went swimming. Then we came back and had lunch. Then we helped the aquarium keeper. At last, we learned about amphibians and reptiles.

Hanz: Today I learned you can tell a boy blue crab from a girl blue crab!

Katherine: Today we went canoeing and stopped at Zeke's Island and swam. Later we went to the holding tanks and fed the snakes mice.

Matthew: As an animal keeper, I learned how to make a fish smoothie and how to feed jellyfish.

Final week of camp!

2010-08-10T13:34:00.000-07:00

This weeks marks the last of Aquarium summer camp for the 2010 season. We welcome new Ocean Explorers and enjoy reading about their first day here:

Sophia: We fed the grouper squid.

Alex: Today my favorite thing was feeding the stingrays. I learned that they suck up their food.

Hanz: Today at camp, I had lots of fun. We got to feed the fish squid and well, fish. I also caught fish at the marsh!

Matthew: Today we did a lot of cool stuff. We went to the salt marsh and tried to go crabbing. We also got to go feed the ray tank. I learned how to feed a stingray.

Alana: I fed fish. I went behind the scenes.

Charles: We helped clean bird cages and went to see Wilson the duck behind the scenes.

Spencer: Today I went behind the scenes and quail holding needed to be cleaned. We also went and met Wilson the duck.

Jacob: Today my group was allowed to feed the stingrays. We fed them dead fish and squid. The cownose stingrays sucked them out of your hand, they felt like mini vacuum cleaners. Then we scattered the extra food. It was a lot of fun.

Katherine: Today at camp we got to feed many different kinds of fish. We fed them squid, chopped fish, and gel pellets. We learned that some fish are more aggressive than others when eating.

Mary Elizabeth: Today at camp we went to the salt marsh and crabbed. Then at 1:00 pm we went with the aquarists to help them feed the fish. It was so cool!

Cameron: Today we went behind the scenes and cleaned out the quail cage. We learned that sea turtles have instincts.

Daniel: I got to feed stingrays, and they eat a squid and fish mix. When they eat out of your hand it feels kind of suction-y. I also had lots of fun.

Mary Beth: Today was a very good day. We played games and had fun. We went to the salt marsh. I got a shrimp, but it got away. Next we had lunch. Then we saw a movie. Then we fed the fish. And we made sand pictures.

A Once in a Lifetime Experience!

2010-08-09T07:58:00.001-07:00

On the final day of Animal Keeper summer camp the campers reflected on their week’s events. Although the week has come to a close, the campers are taking away thoughts of new valuable knowledge about how to take care of animals and their homes. Here is what they had to say about their time at Aquarium summer camp:

Emily, “This week I learned about Wilson. He is a duck, a cool duck. And that he lives behind the scenes in the conservatory!”

Jonathan, “Today we went to the rocky outcrop and caught fish and invertebrates.”

Courtney, “My favorite part of the week was Wilson the wood duck. He is really cute.”

Christopher, “My favorite part of today was that we found fish, crabs, and horseshoe crabs.”

Kylee, “My favorite thing I learned this week was how to care for all of the birds in the aquarium.”

Kelsey, “My favorite part was when we went to the beach. Erin and I played a game. It was fun!”

Caitlin, “My favorite thing we did this week was feed the hidden hunter fish in the freshwater area.”

Kailey, “My favorite part of the week was when we got to feed the sea nettles and feed mice to the snakes. I learned that snakes swallow their prey whole.”

Laura, “My favorite part was when I got to feed the rays.”

Wade, “I liked the salt marsh because I saw a snowy egret.”

Erin, “My favorite part of the week was feeding sharks on Monday. It was a once in a lifetime experience.”

William, “My favorite activity of the week was feeding moon jellies to the loggerhead sea turtles.”

Maren, “Today is my last day at camp. So… My favorite part of camp was feeding the sharks on Monday. It was really cool!”

Michael, “The best thing I learned this week is that all animals have different ways of living in the wild.”

Maddie, “My favorite thing this week was holding a moon jellyfish. It felt a lot like real jelly.”

A Day of Sand, Sun, and Feeding Animals

2010-08-06T06:17:00.000-07:00

On the fourth day of Animal Keepers Aquarium summer camp the ocean explorers made their way down to the beach to have some fun in the waves. Afterwards, they were back behind the scenes to work like Aquarist. Here is what they had to say about their experience:

Jonathan, "Today we went to the beach again! That was really fun! We also fed some animals, like sea snails, hermit crabs, sea stars, sea urchins, and baby horseshoe crabs! P.s. I caught a bunch of fish at the beach including a really big fish which I called Super Fish!!"

Erin, "What I learned from aquariology was how to feed dead mice to a snake and 'baby sitting' a diamondback terrapin."

William, "Today I got to feed some fish and crabs. They were very cool."

Catlin, "We got to feed jellyfish and loggerhead sea turtles today. I learned that jellyfish suck in their tentacles when eating and digesting."

Kylee, "Today I got to feed all different types of sea creatures. I learned that horseshoe crabs have ten eyes and that sea stars eat squid! It was cool to watch!"

Courtney, "What I learned today is that snapping turtles have really long tails, arms, legs, and heads and they bite really hard."

Maddie, "Today I got to feed moon jellyfish a krill mixture. We also fed three moon jellyfish to loggerhead turtles."

Kelsey, "We fed three mice to a snake. He didn't eat it until we left. After that we cleaned a diamondback terrapin turtle's cage and I got to hold her. She seemed much happier after that."

Wade, "I like to feed the loggerhead sea turtles."

Laura, "Today we got to see a lot of animals."

Maren, "Ok, so today me and my group fed a snake three little mice (they were already dead). Then we cleaned out a turtle's tank, then we fed worms to the baby turtles. The baby turtles were so cute and tiny!"

Emily, "Today I fed mice to a eastern king snake. After that I cleaned a diamondback terrapin turtle's tank. Finally I learned that a diamondback tank needs to be cleaned once a week!"

Chris, "Today we cleaned filters that clean the turtle's tank."

Kailey, "Today behind the scenes we fed different fish some shrimp. We fed squid to the crabs and shrimp to sea stars. We saw a horseshoe crab and got to put the squid in the legs of it. We also saw sea urchins and fed it a gel made out of vegetables and vitamins."

Michael, "Today I cleaned filters and looked at different animals and even saw albino turtles."

Day Three: The Adventures Continue

2010-08-05T07:57:00.000-07:00

On the third day of Animal Keeper summer camp the ocean explorers lived the life of an Aquarist by helping feed the animals and clean out their living spaces. Here is what they had to say about their experience:

Wade, "I learned that rays are sometimes aggressive."

Michael, "Today I watched the snakes eat the mice and rats. It was cool. I learned that snakes eat animals whole."

Jonathan, "Today I learned how to feed jellyfish to the turtles!! We also went to the beach!"

Maren, "Today me and my group fed some of the fish already on display! It was still awesome!"

Emily, "Today I got to cut up dead fish into little pieces. We fed the fish in the conservatory and shark tooth ledge!"

Kylee, "Today I got to feed sea nettle jellyfish. I also got to feed the three loggerhead sea turtles some moon jellies. It was so cool to watch! I learned that a single polyp can have 15 jellyfish! And that the aquarium keeps their sea turtles a year."

Erin, "Today I got to cut up food for fish. I learned that all fish need to eat their food cut in different ways."

Kailey, "Today behind the scenes we fed jellyfish. I got to hold a moon jelly! It felt like a blob of jelly! We also fed live moon jellies to the sea turtles! I learned that one polyp can hold up to 10-15 jellyfish at a time."

Maddie, "Today I got to chop up food for yellow stingrays. The food felt slimey. I learned that two squids and two fish are enough food for two days."

Caitlin, "We prepared food for the stingrays and fed them today. I learned that sting ray's stingers can grow back after you cut them."

Kelsey, "First we helped chop up some of the food. It was really gooey! Then we fed the catfish, the albino turtle, and one of the big tanks. After that we fed 'Shark Tooth Ledge' again. It was alot of fun!"

William, "Today I got to go and feed jellyfish that turn in a ball when we feed them sea nettles, and I got to pick up a moon jelly. I also got to feed diamondback terrapins moon jellies and they swallowed them whole."

Courtney, "Today we went to see the snakes we fed. I learned that snakes have scales that grip the ground so they can move."

Laura, "Today we watched them feed the snakes and that was cool."

Christopher, "I have learned that snakes digest their food very very slowly and it's really cool!"

The Ocean Explorers Explore the Salt Marsh

2010-08-04T07:16:00.000-07:00

On day two of Animal Keeper Aquarium summer camp, the Ocean Explorers took a trip to the salt marsh to partake in some crabbing and fun! This is what they had to say about there salt filled day:

Jonathan, "My favorite part of today was going to a salt marsh and feeding a dead mouse to a snake!"

Erin, "Today I learned that horse shoe crab's mouths are in the center of their legs when we fed them. We also learned that low tide is a bad time to go to the salt marsh."

Kailey, "Today behind the scenes our group fed dead mice to a cornsnake. Snakes swallow their food whole. You could see the lump of the mouse go down the body. We also cleaned bags of fish waste and saw baby alligators, albino turtles, snakes, and fish."

Maren, "Today me and my group fed some of the fish they are going to put on display. One of them was a lobster, and we also got to help feed the horseshoe crabs. Then we cleaned out the quails cage. We got to pet a quail too! What we learned today was that horseshoe crabs had to be hand fed."

Emily, "Today I got to do a lot of things! I got to feed fish, lobster, and part of the touch tank! I learned that there is something behind the pond and inside there are ducks."

William, "Today I went behind the scenes and we fed a large snake and an eastern king snake a mouse, and the cornsnake swallowed it hole. And I got to see baby alligators."

Courtney, "Today we went behind the scenes and fed jellyfish. We also got to hold jellyfish. We also fed sea turtles. I learned sea turtles like jelly fish!"

Christopher, "I learned that jellyfish can eat other jellyfish and my group I'm with have cool stories about touching jellies!"

Caitlin, "We got to feed gars and catfish and other fresh water fish. Also a guy named Keith came in and showed us a snake. I learned that snakes don't have eyelids or ears."

Wade, "I learned a group of fish can turn into a feeding frenzy."

Michael, "Today I watched jellyfish eat. I learned that jellyfish pull food to its stomach. I fed sea turtles, they like moon jellies. I got to pick up a moon jelly, I liked it."

Maddie, "Today I got to feed the hidden hunters tank. I learned that the Aquarium makes some of their own fish food."

Laura, "Today we went to feed the sea turtles. I learned that they like jellyfish."

Kelsey, "Today we fed the fish then we fed the touch tank animals. I learned that horseshoe crabs need to be hand fed. Then we fed a lobster and shark tooth reef. After that we went downstairs and cleaned the quails. Next we met Wilson the Duck. He's a funny little guy! Then we watched the alligators until it was time to go."

Kylee, "Today I got to feed a dead mouse to a cornsnake behind the scenes! I learned snake's jaws are not connected. And that some times snakes loose their fangs when they eat. And I got to see an albino snapping turtle."

Animal Keeper Campers have Arrived!

2010-08-03T06:19:00.000-07:00

The theme of this weeks summer camp is 'Animal Keepers' where the campers get to explore what it is like to take care of the animals at the Aquarium. This is what they had to say after their first day of camp:

Courtney, " Today we went to the stingray tank. We fed all of the stingrays. I learned that cownose rays have a slow digestive system. They have to feed them by hand. If they don't and they just throw them in the tank the other stingrays will eat it all before the cownose rays can have seconds."

Jonathan, "Today at the Aquarium we got to go behind the scences and see baby quails! We cleaned up there poo, it was not messy. We also got to pet a quail! The young cardinal was very cute! We saw two ducks in the duck cage that I did not know existed!"

Erin, "Today I learned about how different sharks eat when my group fed the sharks behind the scences. Sand tigers eat slow and sandbars eat fast and agressive. Sandbar shark's food can't be thrown in or they will get to agressive."

Kylee, "Today I got to clean and touch quails! I learned that one of the alligators has eggs in her. But they don't know if they were fertilized. It was so cool!"

Kailey, "Today in Aquarium camp our group learned how to clean a quail's cage. The leader took a quail out of its cage and every person touched the very top of its head. We also went to see the ducks behind the scenes. The group also cleaned a cardinals cage and replaced the newspaper, water, and food. Behind the scenes is amazing!"

Caitlin, "We touched a black rat snake today and it felt scaley."

Michael, "Today I fed some cownose rays. There really fun to feed. They suck on your hand, it feels cool when they touch your hand."

Kelsey, "We got to feed the sharks today! It was great. We learned that sand tiger sharks feed really slowly. Sandbar sharks even jump to get their food. It was amazing! We even got to keep one of the shark teeth!"

Christopher, "I have learned that the cownose stingray has to be hand feed and the teacher is very nice."

Maddie, "Today I touched a black rat snake. It felt like rubber. We also got to feed the newts. They ate tiny shrimp."

Maren, "Me and my group got to feed the sharks! Some sharks were like "This is good! Give me more!" and the other type of sharks acted like "Whatever. I could care less." It was so cool! I loved it!"

Laura, "I learned how to feed the cownose rays, you have to put your hand out and wait for the ray to suck the food off."

William, "What I learned in Aquarium camp is that Wilson the suck is trained to go on people's arms. I got to touch Wilson and a quail, it's very cool."

Wade, "I learned that black rat snake is non-venomous."

Emily, "I learned about sharks and it was awesome! We got to feed them and I learned that if they are in a tank that you can't just throw in the fish you have to use tongs! And I got to take a shark tooth home!"

Ocean Explorers Say Farewell to Aquairum Summer Camp!

2010-08-02T07:17:00.000-07:00

On the last day of camp, the Ocean Explorers gave it their all during their final skits that they performed for their family and friends. This is what they had to say about their week at Aquarium summer camp:

Maddie, "My favorite part of camp was the skit. I played Simona Cowell. It was awesome."

Abbi, "The skit is my favorite thing for the whole week."

Laura, "My favorite activity was going to the beach because even though I live here, I don't get to go a lot."

Jonathon, "My favorite part of camp was EVERYTHING."

Spencer, "My favorite part of the week was the skit. I was a dolphin."

Arianna, "My favorite part about the week was the skit. I was the clownfish."

L.J., "My favorite part of camp was going to the beach and jumping in the waves. "

Zachary, "I got to go behind the scenes to see animals and we learned about jelly fish."

Kerrigan, "My favorite part of the week was going to the beach."

Teddy, "My favorite thing at camp that I did was our fun canoeing experience to Zeke's Island."

Melissa, "My favorite part of this week was when we went to the beach to catch some waves!"

Sydney, "My very favorite part of the whole entire week were my friends. No matter what we did this week it was with the Ocean Explorers. They were so much fun. I am going to miss them very much."

Alexia, "My favorite thing throughout the week was when we went to the touch tank because I got to touch a stingray and it felt slimmy and weird!"

Alyssa, "My favorite parts of this week were the skit because I am Ellen, the judge. My other favorite part was making the colorful shirts. I am sad it is our last day. I will miss Ms. Natalie and Ms. Lauren."

Summer Campers Make Waves at the Beach

2010-07-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

Today was filled with sand, sun and fun for the Ocean Explorers! The summer campers enjoyed a morning at the beach and an afternoon of craft making. This is what they had to say:

Alexia, "My favorite time of the day was when we went to the beach because I got to play the game dogs with Abbi and Arianna."

Jonathon, "Today my favorite part was the waves at the beach."

Zackery, "I had a fun day at the beach. I got to play with animals and I created a fish."

L.J., "My favorite part about today was jumping the waves at the beach."

Spencer, "My favorite part of the day was going behind the scenes."

Arianna, "My favorite parts about today were going to the beach and practicing the skit."

Melissa, "My favorite part of today was when we went to the touch tank because I got to touch the stingrays."

Cameron, "My favorite part of the day was when we were at the beach because it was fun."

Alyssa, "My favorite part of the day was the beach! The waves were awesome and it was fun finding animals. I am sad tomorrow is our last day."

Sydney, "My favorite thing today was going to the beach. It was fun because I got to play with my friend the whole time. My friend and I made a hole and caught tons of little sand fleas. That was my favorite thing."

Teddy, "My favorite part of my day was the beach because I learned a new way to body surf. "

Kerrigan, "My favorite part of the day was the beach! The waves were awesome. It was fun. I can't wait for tomorrow."

Laura, "My favorite part of the day was when we were playing at the beach and it was raining."

Maddie, "Today my favorite part was the movie. We watched Lorax. It was so awesome!"

Frog Calls!

2010-07-28T12:56:00.000-07:00

Today the campers learned about communication and how frogs call. Read about their fun day.

Kerrigan: Today I learned about animal communication. I can't wait for tomorrow.

Jonathon: Frogs are the churpiest animal that communicate.

Alyssa: Today, we learned about frogs and their sounds. Like how they call to each other. I can't wait for what's in store tomorrow!

Maddie: Today we learned how frogs call.

LJ: Today we learned about different frog calls.

Lindsey: Today, I learned how frogs use noises and sounds with their mouths.

Melissa: Today I learned how frogs call their mates.

Sydney: Today I learned about how frogs communicate. They communicate with sounds. It depends on what frog it is for its sound. We played a game and my sound was for a spring peeper. I had to go around the room saying, "peep peep" to see who was my partner. That's what we did.

Ted: I learned that frogs make different noises to communicate or attract mates.

Cameron: We learned that frogs make noises. We had a great time at the beach!

Spencer: I learned about frog calls!

Alexia: I learned about frog calls and other animal calls.

Abby: I learned about hearing and that frogs call their mates.

Arianna: Today we went to the beach and we learned about frog communication.

Laura: I learned that different types of frogs have different calls. Some of them sound very weird.

Zachary: I learned about how animals talk to each other. I went swimming in the ocean and we made clay frogs.