Latest news with #Aquarium
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Rare 20-year-old plant is blooming for the first and last time at Point Defiance
For a short window of time, visitors to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium will be in the presence of an unusual sight. The zoo's botanical garden has been the home and caretaker to an Agave parryi var. truncata, also referred to as an artichoke agave, for more than 17 years. Now, the plant is blooming for the first and only time over the next few weeks, a rare sight in Washington state, far from its natural habitat, Point Defiance Zoo lead horticulturist Bryon Jones told The News Tribune on Thursday. 'This plant is definitely an uncommon sight in the Northwest, and super uncommon to see one actually blooming that you can actually see in a public setting,' Jones said. According to the University of Arizona Campus Arboretum, the artichoke agave is an evergreen, perennial succulent part of the asparagus family — or asparagaceae — that presents with a blue-gray hue and pointy, toothed leaves growing in rosettes. Agave parryi var. truncata is native to central Mexico, but can also be found in the mountainous areas of the desert southwest, including in Arizona and New Mexico, he said. Artichoke agave plants typically take 15-20 years to reach maturity, at which point they bloom for one time only before dying, Jones said. During a bloom, the agave will grow a single stalk from its center — Jones said he had first noticed the beginning of the stalk around May 6 and estimated that this agave has reached about nine feet in height, meaning it could still grow taller in the coming weeks. The plant is just inside the zoo's main entrance. The zoo acquired the plant from a local nursery in Tacoma about 17 years ago, when the plant was the size of a softball — it is likely around 20 years old now, Jones said, adding that he has been working at the zoo's botanical garden for about 20 years and anticipating its bloom. 'All I saw was the middle of it started looking like some crazy alien was starting to come out of the middle of it, and then it came up so fast ... for the last few weeks, it would be two to three feet a week,' he said. He added that yellow flowers will blossom at the tip of the stalk likely in the next two to three weeks and will probably attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. The flowers should be visible on the plant for another two to three weeks; after that, if pollinated, they will start producing seeds, he said. The stalk, however, will remain in place throughout the summer and likely into fall, he said, adding that the zoo may take it down before winter once it begins to decompose and fall. Jones said the zoo also has a few other artichoke agave plants growing nearby that may bloom in the coming years; some appear to be a similar size and age, meaning it is possible that two or three blooms may eventually occur at the same time, he added. 'This is the first Agave parryi. Now, there's little agaves, and we've had a couple of those ... their stem is like the size of your finger,' Jones said. 'So, this is the first time we've had one this giant blooming.' Despite being out of its native habitat, the plant requires little upkeep other than the need to keep it raised to improve drainage and making sure it doesn't get too cold, Jones added, noting that the agave's native habitat often gets colder than the weather in Western Washington, which makes it relatively easy to grow in Tacoma. Krystle Robbins, a zoo visitor who was admiring the agave on Thursday, told The News Tribune she was impressed by the height of the stalk and enjoyed Jones' longtime investment in the plant and passion for nature. She said she'd be interested in returning to the zoo to see the agave once its flowers bloomed. 'I've never seen one in such a scale in person, it's really beautiful,' Robbins said. 'It's pretty amazing up here in the Pacific Northwest to see something like this.'
Yahoo
5 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Axolotls introduced to aquarium at Sioux Falls zoo
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) – A popular aquatic creature is being introduced to the Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium, according to a news release. 29-year-old state inmate dead; 9th this year Axolotls are aquatic salamanders native to a few small lakes in Mexico City. In the wild, axolotlsare critically endangered, with fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining. Their tiny habitat isthreatened by pollution, invasive species, and disease, according to the Sioux Falls Zoo. Wild axolotls are typically dark in color, with mottled patterns of brown and green. In the pet trade, axolotls are found in a variety of colors, including leucitic (pink/white). Axolotls have experienced a meteoric rise in popularity as pets and in pop culture in recentyears. However, a professional animal care setting is more suitable, as they have highly specialized care needs and habitat conditions, the zoo said in a news release. Axolotls found in pet stores are mostly likely part of a captive-bred population. Over-breeding has led to many axolotls with genetic defects and weakened immune systems. The Butterfly House & Aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests can see the axolotls in Ambassador Alley, next to the Marsh Turtle habitat. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Boston Globe
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
New England Aquarium celebrates Atlantic harbor seals' 40th birthdays
'At any time of day or night, you can see visitors walking by the exhibit to see what the harbor seals are up to,' she said in the statement. A small crowd gathered at the open-air exhibit outside the Aquarium entrance as trainers led games and demonstrations with the birthday pair. The seals' birthday cake didn't have frosting or candles—instead, it was made of ice jello and fish, according to the Aquarium. New England Aquarium Advertisement Although both seals marked the occasion together, the celebration officially honored Amelia's birthday; she was born at the Aquarium on May 28, 1985. Amelia, who lost one eye to chronic corneal inflammation, enjoys 'bottling' — floating upright with her nose above water — and in sleeping in odd positions, according to the statement. Born just over a week after her half-sister, on June 7, Trumpet is now a mother of two and likes to Both seals are offspring of Hoover, the Aquarium's famed 'talking harbor seal' that could mimic phrases such as 'Hello there' and 'How are you?' Though Hoover has died, one of Trumpet's pups, Chacoda, is beginning to learn a few words, according to the Aquarium's Advertisement The Aquarium also thanked its staff for their support for Amelia and Trumpet. 'Their longevity is a true testament to the New England Aquarium's commitment to prioritizing the highest level of animal wellbeing and veterinary care, along with our staff's dedication to the animals,' said Kristen McMahon, the Aquarium's curator of Pinnipeds and Penguins, in the statement. Staff created birthday cards for the seals, and guests were also invited to sign a large poster, the Aquarium said. New England Aquarium Rita Chandler can be reached at
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Long Island Aquarium Celebrates 25 Years with a Summer Full of Fun and Savings + Otter Pups!
RIVERHEAD, N.Y., May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This summer, the Long Island Aquarium kicks off its 25th anniversary with 25 weeks of family-friendly fun, featuring special events and deep discounts. Sponsored by Bank of America and partnered with Discover Long Island, the Long Island Aquarium's 25th Anniversary is set to be an unforgettable experience. "There's nothing like the Long Island Aquarium to bring Long Islanders and visitors together to explore marine life," said Jennifer Pedulla, Community Relations Manager, Bank of America Long Island. "For 25 years, the aquarium has been serving the community and we are proud to commemorate this important milestone together." The celebration is also being supported by Stony Brook Children's Hospital, Suffolk County's only Children's Hospital with a 24/7 Pediatric Emergency Department. 25 Weeks of Fun Highlights: $25 Admission Days On the 25th day of each month, (April through September), visitors will enjoy discounted admission of $25 per person! Coupon Sheet Dive into the savings with our Coupon Sheet. For $25, guests will receive a coupon sheet with more than $125 worth of savings. Swag Bags Commemorative bags will be distributed to the first 25 families/groups who visit on the 25th of each month (April through September). Interactive Experiences Atlantis Explorer Tour Boat and Snorkel Adventure sessions will be discounted to $25 all summer long! Weekly Giveaways Follow the aquarium's social media channels for updates on exclusive giveaways both in person and on their social platforms. Then & Now Photo Submissions Guests are invited to recreate friend and family photos originally taken at the Aquarium. Special Vendor Days Visit during one of the Vendor Tabling Days for exclusive giveaways and special offers from Aquarium partners. Historic Construction Displays Explore exclusive photo displays documenting the construction of its world-class habitats. Call for Artists Submit aquatic-themed work for a judged art show with cash prizes. Get the details at Member Birthday Party On June 25th from 5:30pm-8:30pm, Aquarium members will be invited to the aquarium's birthday party with fun activities and amazing prizes including one grand-prize 25-Year Couple Membership! "For 25 years, the Long Island Aquarium has been a cornerstone of our region's tourism industry, inspiring visitors from near and far to explore the wonders of marine life," said Discover Long Island Interim President & CEO, Mitch Pally. "Its commitment to education, conservation, and unforgettable family experiences makes it a true, year-round, Long Island treasure and key driver for economic growth in our region. We are thrilled to join in on celebrating this anniversary and look forward to the next 25 years of making waves together." Naming the Otter Pups On February 6, resident North American river otters Flo and Stark welcomed a litter of four pups—two males and two females. To name this second-generation brood born at the Aquarium, the public was invited to vote on name options: four for the girls and four for the boys. Each name was inspired by either a type of nut, in honor of the pups' grandfather, Peanut, or a type of jam, in honor of their grandmother, Jelly. More than 9,900 votes were cast, and the winning names—Fig and Peach, along with Pistachio (Stache) and Walnut (Wally)—were revealed on Mother's Day. The pups now enjoy all-day access to both indoor and outdoor habitats, where they can often be seen swimming and playing with their parents at Otter Falls. Water Safety Tips Join us on May 17 when pediatric trauma experts from the Stony Brook Children's Hospital stop by to share water safety tips at their table in the Shark Room. "Every summer, we see heartbreaking water accidents that could have been prevented. As the county's only Level 1 trauma center for both kids and adults, we treat more drowning injuries than we should," said Dr. Carolyn Milana, Chair of the Department of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief of Stony Brook Children's Hospital. "That's why our pediatric injury prevention professional will be available with a fun, educational, hands-on safety activity to promote water safety. We'd love for you to stop by and learn how to keep your family safe this summer." Honoring America's Heroes In celebration of Memorial Day, the Aquarium offers free admission to active and retired military personnel, plus 10% off admission for their families on May 26. Offer valid in person only; military ID required. Aquarium Events for the Grown-Ups Summer break is for the kids, but the Aquarium is hosting some fun, adult-only events this year. Taste the East End • June 21 @ 7pm This flavor-filled event brings local breweries, vineyards and craft beverage makers to the Aquarium with tastings, light fare, and live music. Guests will enjoy the Aquarium after hours, and all the indoor and outdoor habitats will be open. $95/per person, 21+ only. Booze Cruises on the Atlantis Explorer Tour Boat Enjoy Rum Punch, Tequila Sunrises or local Harvest Wines on the Sunset "BOOZE" cruise adventures! Enjoy a trip on the Tour Boat as it travels along the Peconic River with fun music, complimentary drinks and snacks, while enjoying the beautiful summer sunset. $80/per person, 21+ only. Rum Cruise – Saturday, July 19 @ 7:30pm Tequila Cruise – Saturday, August 23 @ 7:30pm Wine Cruise – Saturday, September 13 @ 7pm Wedding Showcase • August, 14, 2025 @ 6:30pm Atlantis Banquets & Events wedding specialists will be available to help guests navigate the treacherous waters of wedding planning at their Wedding Showcase. Tour the Long Island Aquarium, Sea Star Ballroom, Hyatt Place Long Island/East End, The Preston Hotel and the Waterfront Suite, all while enjoying tastings, live music, raffles and more! $25 at the door/$20 if reserved in advance. A mission to educate and entertain For 25 years, the Long Island Aquarium has inspired millions of visitors with the wonders of both local and exotic marine life. Through immersive exhibits, conservation efforts, and dynamic educational programs, it has stood as a vital center for curiosity, learning, and environmental stewardship. "For 25 years, we've proudly welcomed local families, school groups, and tourists. Entertaining and educating our guests has always been one of our core missions," said Bryan DeLuca, Executive Director of the Aquarium. "We look forward to welcoming millions more over the next 25 years." Plan Your VisitJoin the Long Island Aquarium as they celebrate 25 years of making waves! For more information on 25 Weeks of Fun activities, special pricing dates, and event updates, visit and follow their social media @LongIslandAquarium on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. About Long Island AquariumThe Long Island Aquarium provides an interactive and exciting educational experience by capturing the visitors' imaginations and emphasizing the importance of marine life and environmental preservation. Featuring a large all-living Coral Reef display, a 120,000-gallon Shark habitat, year-round sea lion shows, African Penguins, numerous touch tanks and more than 100 exhibits including the lavish indoor gardens of our Butterflies, Bugs and Bees Exhibit! Named a Top 10 Aquarium for Children by Parents Magazine, the Long Island Aquarium is open daily (Closed Christmas & Thanksgiving Days). You can add to the fun with an overnight stay at the waterfront Hyatt Place Long Island/East End or The Preston Hotel, both located adjacent to the Aquarium property. For more information, please visit Contact: Darlene PuntilloPhone: 631.208.9200, ext. 247 (office)• 631.902.5920 (cell) dpuntillo@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Long Island Aquarium
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
First confirmed 2025 sighting of white shark in Mass. waters
The first white shark of the 2025 season has been spotted off the coast of Massachusetts. The sighting happened off of Nantucket on May 11, according to The New England Aquarium (NEAQ). A person who was on the shore of Smith's Point in Madaket on the island noticed a 'pool of blood' in the water, then saw a seal swimming toward the beach. A shark was following close behind the seal, the witness said. After the seal got to shore, an NEAQ scientist examined pictures of the seal's wounds and confirmed its bites came from a white shark. 'This is the time of year when we like to remind people to be 'shark smart' as white sharks return to the inshore waters of New England, where they'll hunt seals and other prey through the summer and into the fall,' said John Chisholm, an adjunct scientist in the Aquarium's Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life. To be 'shark smart,' the public should be aware of sharks' presence in shallow waters. The public is also advised to avoid areas where there are seals or schools of fish, and to stay close to shore. Scientists also encourage the public to report shark sightings through the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy's Sharktivity app, which has information on shark activity. 'Increased shark sightings can be a positive sign of a recovering marine ecosystem, but this recovery also means that people should take even more care while swimming or surfing,' said Dr. Nick Whitney, senior scientist and chair of the Anderson Cabot Center's Fisheries Science and Emerging Technologies program. 'Our work in the Aquarium's Anderson Cabot Center focuses on balancing ocean use with preservation, meaning we recognize the importance of the ocean for human use while trying to reduce the impact of humans on sharks, and vice versa,' Whitney said. This limited edition cherry blossom multi-styler is the perfect Dyson Airwrap dupe This Shark Vacuum is under $200 and it might be the best Dyson alternative yet 100 sharks were tagged on Cape Cod. Here's where they went Owner wants to sell Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream in Worcester Shark sighting: Orleans police respond to 'not typical' call for service Read the original article on MassLive.
