Latest news with #LongIslandAquarium
CBS News
03-07-2025
- General
- CBS News
Will beachgoers in New York and New Jersey be safe from sharks this summer?
Millions are expected to head to beaches across New York and New Jersey this Fourth of July weekend, but will they be safe from sharks? Last week, officials said a woman was likely bitten by a shark at Jones Beach, prompting precautions. There will be more drones, plus lifeguards on the lookout, but, as they say in "Jaws," those beaches will be open. Still, with this incident — and the 50th anniversary of the classic shark attack film — on their minds, some beachgoers are wondering, are sharks a bigger problem? CBS News New York's Dick Brennan asked experts for this edition of "Question Everything." Data shows shark attacks are rare across U.S. Experts say there's more marine life in the water, including sharks, in part because waters have gotten warmer and they're not as over-fished as they used to be, so the chances for an encounter are greater. But Joe Yaiullo, curator and co-founder of the Long Island Aquarium, says humans are not on the menu. "If we were, the sharks would be lining up off of Jones Beach and Robert Moses and just waiting for these millions of people to go in the water," he said. "So any incident that usually happens is an inquisitive incident. A shark doesn't have hands to feel with, so they're going to mouth something. They get a lot of tactile information by mouthing something." CBS News New York The most recent statistics from 2024 show attacks are rare. There were just 28 unprovoked shark bites and one fatality in the entire United States last year. "Many more people die of bee stings. Many more people die driving to the beach," Yaiullo said. Teen surfer undeterred after shark encounter off Fire Island Eighteen-year-old Maxwell Haynes, of Islip, knows what it's like to encounter a shark firsthand — or in this case, foot. "It was terrifying. It was like a primal fear I can't even describe," he said. Three summers ago, Haynes was surfing at Kismet Beach off Fire Island when he got the surprise of his life. "Out of nowhere, I just got bit in my right leg," he said. Haynes said he knew right away it was shark. Maxwell Haynes, 16, is carried off the beach after getting bitten by a shark in July 2022. CBS2 "I freaked out. I started kicking and then it just let go after a few seconds," he said. Haynes was bit in water that was just 4 feet deep. "My foot probably just looked like any other fish," he said. The attack, or encounter as experts like to say, ended fast; the shark swam off, and Haynes, who was just 16 at the time, recovered quickly. The incident hasn't scared him away, though. He's now a lifeguard and an EMT, and he's still surfing, even around sharks. Dick Brennan goes diving with sharks Brennan decided to get his own up-close encounter. He entered the Long Island Aquarium's shark tank in a large cage alongside dive expert Barry Lipsig. Seven sharks, including some sand tiger sharks, were inside the tank, but they seemed oblivious to the divers, minding their own business. CBS News New York's Dick Brennan took a dive in a shark tank at Long Island Aquarium in 2025. CBS News New York Experts say sharks don't want to bite humans, but they'll sometimes nip at swimmers and surfers, and even that can be dangerous. "If you're in the water and you do see that fin, could be a shark fin. Safest bet is just get out of the water," Yaiullo said. So what's the best way to avoid sharks? Experts say don't swim at dawn or dusk, and don't swim around large schools of fish or seals.
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
New York Post
21-04-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Inside LI Aquarium's massive shark tank where visitors dive with ‘Jaws'-like monsters on spot's 25th anniversary
They've been making a splash since 2000. The Long Island Aquarium is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year with many of its original marine life still flipping and swimming in Riverhead. 7 The Long Island Aquarium is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Dennis A. Clark 'The sharks are 26, and I've got some fish in the reef tank that I've had for 26 years, among many others,' co-founder Joe Yaiullo told The Post. 'That's a credit to our staff, really maintaining the quality of life that the animals need.' 7 Many of its original marine life still flipping and swimming in Riverhead. Dennis A. Clark Yaiullo remembers acquiring the aquarium's four sand tiger sharks just before opening in 1999, when they were a mere 30 inches long. Now, the apex predators — their teeth are as sharp as they look — come in at around 400 pounds and 10-feet long. And the exceptionally brave can hop in the water with them. Diving with sharks For nearly 20 years, the aquarium has offered guests the death-defying opportunity to take a cage dive into its 120,000-gallon tank. Participants are accompanied by a dive pro and must wear a wetsuit, facemask and weights to keep them from floating up. Two females, Bertha and Bumps, are the largest of the four, bur Drummer and Shredfin are only smaller by comparison. 7 Participants are accompanied by a dive pro and must wear a wetsuit, facemask and weights to keep them from floating up. Dennis A. Clark The 'Jaws'-like monsters were curious as The Post took part in a recent dive in the balmy 68 degrees salt water. One shark collided with the cage's metal bars, causing them to sway noticeably back and forth. The tank also features several exotic fish, including a plump Queensland grouper, a green moray eel, and several striped bass, along with other unique marine life, such as the colorful Garibaldi Damselfish. 7 The tank also features several exotic fish, including a plump Queensland grouper, a green moray eel, and several striped bass. Dennis A. Clark They're all safe from the sand tigers simply because they are 'lazy' predators who don't feel the chase is worth the effort, Yaiullo explained. Just keep swimming Outside the shark tank, there's plenty to see at the marine center, which has broadened its footprint since opening 25 years ago and now features reptiles, insects and large mammals. They proudly display Grey Beauty, a blind seal rescued from an East Hampton beach in 1997, on the front of the property for all to see. 7 They proudly display Grey Beauty, a blind seal rescued from an East Hampton beach in 1997. Dennis A. Clark 'She was found blind. She was emaciated, malnourished, she had a scar on her back. She had a respiratory infection,' explained Candyce Paparo, director of Animal Training. 'The rescue center was able to rehabilitate her. And bring her back to good health,' the employee of 25 years added. Grey Beauty joins another 5-year-old blind seal, Buddy Holly, who was found on Fire Island a few years ago. 7 The marine center has broadened its footprint since opening 25 years ago and now features reptiles, insects and large mammals. Dennis A. Clark 'You'll still see them chasing the other animals or playing. It's really amazing.' Paparo is also in charge of the aquarium's four sea lions, two of which were born in 2001. They routinely perform in an outdoor stadium, showcasing their jumping skills and ability to react on command by holding fun poses — and taking selfies, sometimes planting a slobbery kiss on guests. 'It can take years to train them, but some things they can pick up in a matter of days,' Paparo explained. Along with being home to four new adorable otter pups, South African penguins have been a fan favorite since they arrived in 2004. 7 South African penguins have been a fan favorite since they arrived in 2004. Dennis A. Clark Maggie Seiler, assistant curator of penguins, explained that the group of 19 was originally brought in after being confiscated at customs in the mid-2000s. While the details on their origin story remain fuzzy, Seiler does know 'everybody loves them.' 'They have that black and white look — that tuxedo look, the way they waddle, everything about them,' she said. 'People are just so thrilled to see them.'
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Long Island Aquarium Celebrates 25 Years of Making Waves
RIVERHEAD, N.Y., March 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Long Island Aquarium is thrilled to announce its 25th Anniversary Celebration, marking a quarter-century of marine education, conservation, and unforgettable family fun. Sponsored by Bank of America and partnered with Discover Long Island, this milestone event is set to be an unforgettable experience. 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. "The Long Island Aquarium is a valued community partner of many years and offers Long Islanders the opportunity to connect and explore our relationship to marine life," said Marc Perez, president, Bank of America Long Island. "This year, we look forward to joining the Long Island Aquarium to commemorate its 25th anniversary by bringing community members together to learn and discover." To commemorate the occasion, the Aquarium is launching 25 Weeks of Fun, a series of exciting events and activities that showcase its rich history and vibrant future. Starting the first week of April and running for 25 weeks through September, they'll celebrate this milestone birthday with special offers, events, and giveaways. 25 Weeks of Fun Highlights: $25 Admission Days As a thank-you to loyal visitors, on the 25th day of each month, from April through September, all 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 on things like Eye Opener tickets, for ice cream in our Scoops Ice Cream Shop, on a rental at LI Canoe Kayak Rentals and much more! Swag Bags Commemorative bags containing our Coupon Sheet and other fun items will be distributed to the first 25 families/groups who visit on the 25th of each month from April through September. Interactive Experiences Rides on the Atlantis Explorer Tour Boat and Snorkel Adventure sessions will be discounted to $25, all summer long! Weekly Giveaways Guests will have opportunities to win big throughout the celebration. 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 dive into nostalgia by recreating friend and family photos originally taken at the Aquarium. Submit your favorite "Then & Now" photos for a chance to win admission tickets and to be featured on the Aquarium's social media pages. Special Vendor Days Visit during one of the Vendor Tabling Days for exclusive giveaways and special offers from Aquarium partners. Historic Construction Displays Stroll through the Aquarium and explore exclusive photo displays that document the construction of its world-class habitats. Witness how the Long Island Aquarium has transformed over the years into a cornerstone of the local community. Call for Artists The aquarium has put out a call for artists to submit aquatic-themed works for a judged art show with cash prizes, to take place during their Member Birthday Party. Artists can get all the information and submit their works 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! A Legacy of WonderSince opening its doors 25 years ago, the Long Island Aquarium has welcomed millions of visitors to discover the beauty and diversity of marine life. From immersive exhibits and conservation programs to engaging education initiatives, the Aquarium has been a beacon of curiosity and environmental stewardship. "We're honored to celebrate this milestone with our community, guests, and staff who have supported us every step of the way," said Bryan DeLuca, Executive Director of the Aquarium. "Our 25th Anniversary is not just about reflecting on the past, but also about looking ahead to the next 25 years of innovation, inspiration, and impact." "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 Kristen Reynolds, Discover Long Island President & CEO. "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." 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 or 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@ 19, 2025 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Long Island Aquarium Sign in to access your portfolio
