Summer 2016 VAQ

SUMMER 2016

Virginia Aquarium Quarterly

THE VIRGINIA AQUARIUM CELEBRATING 30 YEARS

GIANT POND TURTLES BREEDING FOR CONSERVATION SUMMER 2016 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

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MEMBERSHIP QUICK FACTS CONTACT INFORMATION

9 –5

HOURS OF OPERATION

(757) 385-FISH

AM

VirginiaAquarium.com Membership@VirginiaAquarium.com

PM

Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas

DAILY ADMISSIONS PER MEMBERSHIP LEVEL

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s mission is to inspire conservation of the marine environment through education, research and sustainable practices.

SUMMER 2016, VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3

2 4 6 OTTER

CRAB

HEDGEHOG

Philanthropic memberships are also available.

At least one named cardholder must be present during each visit.

VAQ is published four times a year by the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation located at 717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451.

EDITORS Matthew Klepeisz, Ellis Pawson ADVISOR Caryl Thompson CREATIVE DIRECTOR Savannah Kaylor

Join Us For The Gala Of The Year

October 8, 2016 | 7–11PM For more information, visit VirginiaAquarium.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ashley Laginestra CONTRIBUTORS Holly Blackwood, Karen Burns, Lynn Clements, Sarah Dawson, Lisa Grigolite, Jennifer Hill, Stephen Knoop, Lori Lawson, Julie Levans, Mary McCarthy, Mike Mizell, Kevin & Penny O’Connor, Alexis Rabon, Shawn Reid, Lori Semple, Craig Simmons, April Strickland, Kristine Williams, Chris Witherspoon WE CARE ABOUT CONSERVATION

VAQ is printed with soy-based inks on post-consumer recycled paper.

Please remember to recycle VAQ when you’re finished reading & sharing it.

Virginia Beach Convention Center

1000 19th St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

LY N N ’ S L I N E S

FEATURES

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WHAT'S ON THE MENU?

THE HEART OF THE MATTER “When its doors open late this spring, a giant classroom of Virginia’s marine life will be waiting for visitors to explore.” – Fact sheet about Virginia Aquarium, written before June 14, 1986 opening

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CELEBRATING 30 YEARS

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WHY WE GIVE

From the original idea, to celebrating our 30th anniversary, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center has changed our name and added to our campus, but we have always fostered lifelong learning. From the founding director, C. Mac Rawls, to our current staff and volunteers, we continue to encourage educational growth.

Without Mac’s educational background, appreciation of coastal habitats, and passion for creating a learning center about marine science, none of our facilities or exhibits would be here today.

The Aquarium has shared our conservation and education message with over 15 million visitors to the facility since opening day. More than 621,000 individuals visited last year alone, including 85,000 students who participated in specialized educational programs.

Our staff and volunteers actively model lifelong learning. A cadre of our volunteers recently traveled to Cuba to learn about ecological diversity.

Aquarium staff are actively researching Asian Pond Turtle population changes and adding valuable information to the body of scientific knowledge about these creatures. Others serve on a regional task force to address sea level rise. These individuals are dedicated to learning and passing that knowledge on to others.

On June 14, 2016, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine celebrates three decades of education, inspiration, and conservation. Thanks to the vision of the City of Virginia Beach and the leadership of a lifetime educator, this idea turned into a project, this project turned into a museum, and this museum turned into your Aquarium.

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REEF RESTORATION

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EVENT GUIDE

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JUST FOR KIDS

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EXPERT Q & A

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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

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Executive Director SUMMER 2016 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

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F I S H F I N AT I C

LONGSPINE SNIPEFISH

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The spine along the dorsal edge of the body in Macroramphosus scolopax is serrated, and plays a part in mating displays.

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Snipefish are closely related to seahorses, pipefish, and trumpetfish, and have a similar tubular mouth.

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Like their cousins the seahorses and pipefish, snipefish tend to cluster together in schools and thrive in groups more than they do alone.

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | SUMMER 2016

Macroramphosus scolopax

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The action of ingesting food for snipefish, seahorses, pipefish, and sea dragons is commonly referred to as “snick,� likely for the sound the quick suction produces underwater.

Snipefish commonly swim in a peculiar head down, tail up orientation in the water.

F E AT U R E

WHAT'S ON THE MENU? B Y S A R A H DAW S O N , S T E P H E N K N O O P, J U L I E L E VA N S & M A R Y M C C A R T H Y

What do they eat? How often do they eat? Some of the most frequent questions from guests and members are about our animals’ diets.

Humphead lizard

Feeding animals at the Virginia Aquarium is always a team effort.

Our keepers, curators, veterinarian, and director of live exhibits all collaborate to determine the best diets for each animal based on their nutritional needs. We do our best to replicate their natural diet by looking at our animals’ habits in the wild. Diets are prepared fresh daily and the prep work can take up the biggest chunk of a keepers’ days. We also spend a great deal of time cleaning to ensure that our kitchens meet the same USDA standards as restaurants.

Most of our food comes from restaurant suppliers and other local vendors. Some foods are cultured by the keepers, and some specialized food items are sourced from accredited suppliers. Most of the animals eat fish and other seafood which we purchase from a local company that endeavors to source their seafood sustainably.

Many animals in our collection are fed a variety of fresh produce, also purchased through local vendors. Several departments grow their

An Aquarium volunteer ca refully prepa res n u t r i t i on a l l y complete meals for animals. Vitamin supplements — not unlike those you m ight t a ke at home — a re b e i n g a d d e d t o h e l p k e e p a n i m a l s h e a l t h y.

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own food for the animals that have more specialized nutritional needs. For example, the fish department cultures brine shrimp, rotifers (planktonic animals), and two different species of algae. These foods are fed to jellies, juvenile sea horses, and corals. Our herpetology department cultures fruit flies and pinhead ( juvenile) crickets for our poison dart frogs.

body weight, age, and breeding. It takes a team of keepers to feed some animal collections, including our seals, otters, sharks, Tomistomas, and sea turtles.

We often incorporate behavioral training into our feedings. The fish in some exhibits, such as Red Sea and Norfolk Canyon, are broadcast fed. This means food is distributed throughout the exhibit.

As the zoo and aquarium industry has grown, nutritionists have developed specialized diets and vitamin supplements for wildlife. We use these nutritionally complete, commercially prepared gel diets for some of our fish, turtles, crustaceans, and Tomistomas. Nearly all animals at the Aquarium also receive vitamin supplements in their diets.

Diets are regularly reevaluated to make sure our animals’ needs are met. We also make changes as scientific knowledge of our animals grows.

While our animals and their dietary needs vary, one thing remains true: they eat well.

Most animals are fed predetermined amounts of food.

The amount is determined by many factors including

SO WHAT'S FOR DINNER? SEALS

SHARKS

4 times a day

2 times a week

Whole herring, capelin & smelt

Whole mackerel, herring & squid

KOMODO DRAGONS

TOMISTOMA

2 times a week Small rats, large mice, chicks, hard boiled eggs, smelt, quail & specialized gel diet

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2 times a week Large rats, quail, chicks, trout, yellow croaker, capelin & specialized gel diet

SEA TURTLES

OTTERS

5 times a week

4 times a day

Whole smelt, squid, cod, mackerel & butterfish

Capelin, smelt, chicken breast & small mice

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | SUMMER 2016

A N I M A L F E AT U R E

RESTORING OYSTER REEFS

BY CHRIS WI THER SP OON

Jonathan Swift once said, "He was a bold man that first ate an oyster," and if you have ever opened one, you'd likely agree. Looks, however, can be deceiving, as these plump and salty-sweet meats are prized treats for seafood lovers from around the world.

During Colonial times, oyster reefs in the Bay were so widespread in shallow water that the bi-valves were easy pickings for food, and even posed a navigational hazard to boats. Through the years, Bay watermen met the insatiable demand for oysters by collecting vast amounts from the reefs without regard to the impact this might have on the oyster population or to the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

x 50 One oyster can filter 50 gallons of water each day, rem ov in g s ed im en t p a r t i c l es, n u t r ien t s , a n d p o llu t a n t s that, i n excess , a re h a r m f u l to t he B ay.

Overharvesting, infection by disease, and loss of habitat, led to the collapse of the Bay’s once thriving oyster population and industry. This decline not only affected the economy, but it also affected water quality and biodiversity in the Chesapeake Bay. Scientists now know that oysters maintain water quality through their filtering activities and contribute to biodiversity by providing reef habitat and food to other animals. In addition, oyster reefs act as breakwaters, protecting the shoreline from erosive waves.

Restoring oyster reefs in the Chesapeake Bay and other waterways is a priority because of the many benefits these invertebrates provide.

The new demonstration reef at the Virginia Aquarium is an example of a restoration project aimed at improving water quality, increasing biodiversity, and reducing erosion of the marsh in Owls Creek while educating the public about the value of oysters. As part of the Aquarium’s World Oceans Day celebration, we’ll be highlighting the one-year old reef through special programs June 4–8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

I t t a kes t h e B ay ’s oyster s a b out a yea r to f ilter t h e en t ire vol um e of water in t h e b a s in ( 1 8 t r i l l i on g a l l ons.)

Th is s o u n d s im p ress ive unl ess you kn ow t h at t h e oyster p o p ul ati on wa s o n ce la rg e en o u g h to f ilter the sa m e vo lu m e in o n ly 3 to 4 d ays!

Join us for our Owls Creek Oyster Reef Ceremony S a t u r d a y, J u n e 4 | 1 : 0 0 p m S c e n i c O v e r l o o k i n t h e A q u a r i u m ’s B a y & O c e a n P a v i l i o n ( r a i n o r s h i n e)

SUMMER 2016 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

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Celebrating

30 Years

Time flies when you're having fun.

On June 14, 2016, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center will celebrate 30 years of inspiring conservation of the marine environment through education, research, and sustainable practices. We have saved hundreds of animals with our Stranding Response Program, worked on thousands of hours of scientific research, and hosted millions of guests. Here’s a look back at some of our most memorable milestones. Thanks for 30 years!

1980 1973 Virginia Beach City School Board proposes an idea for a science resource room.

C. Mac Rawls, a science supervisor for Virginia Beach Public Schools was asked to head a panel to study the idea.

City Council appoints three task forces to aid in the development of the Virginia Beach Museum of Marine Sciences.

1982 The Museum seeks allocations from the Virginia General Assembly, but does not receive full ask.

1975 The panel recommends creating a marine science museum devoted to Virginia’s marine environment and hiring an expert to check the committee’s plan and offer further recommendations. The project is known as the Virginia Beach Museum of Marine Sciences.

1981

1979

Ten members of the Museum Foundation Task Force officially form a non-profit organization in support of the animals, exhibits, and programs for the new museum.

The City of Virginia Beach donates the site for the facility and Rawls is named director of the museum.

1983

at the m staff Aquariu office ndleton Camp Pe 's in the 80

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The Foundation, and other museum supporters, successfully lobby the General Assembly to appropriate $2 million for the construction of the Museum. The City of Virginia Beach adds its $3.5 million contribution and construction on the facility begins.

1984 In a public/non-profit partnership, the Foundation launches a successful $2 million capital campaign to pay for the museum’s exhibits. Rawls, and his staff of six, move from their office at 1917 Arctic Avenue to their new temporary quarters in Camp Pendleton. Harold, the 17-pound lobster caught

by Hagan Seafood Corporation, is donated to the Museum as its first live animal exhibit.

1985 The name changes to Virginia Marine Science Museum.

Constr

uction begins the Mu on seum

1990 Plans for Phase II of the Virginia Marine Science Museum begin. The project will triple the size of the current facility to 120,000 square feet, more than 45 acres of land, and two buildings.

June 14, 1986 The Virginia Marine Science Museum officially opens to the public. It is a 41,500-square-foot facility on a 9-acre site. Attendance for the first summer exceeds projections with more than 109,000 visitors for the first three months.

1992 Virginia Beach City Council approves $32.8 million from the Tourism Growth Investment Fund (TGIF) for the museum’s expansion.

1991

1989 Museum staff and volunteers begin responding to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles that wash up sick, injured or dead along the beaches.

The Foundation agrees to fund the activities of this newly formed VMSM Stranding Response Program.

Also during this year, the Foundation funds the development of an outreach program that developed into the Ocean in Motion traveling aquarium program.

The Museum’s Stranding Response Team, composed of staff and volunteers, is officially formed. The Museum begins winter whale watching trips. These trips created an off-season tourism industry for the City of Virginia Beach.

1994 The Foundation launches its second capital campaign for the museum’s Phase II expansion. Ground breaking on the new facility begins.

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June 14, 1996 Phase II of the Virginia Marine Science Museum opens to the public. During the first year more than 692,000 people visit the newly expanded museum. This set a new high-water mark for visitation.

April 26, 1999 Bay Lab at First Landing State Park opens. It included a hands-on educational laboratory filled with aquariums, touch tanks, and microscopes where VMSM staff conducted programs focusing on various Chesapeake Bay topics.

Execu tive D irect Cleme or Lyn nts & R n e stless archit Planet ect Pe ter So llogub

July 1, 2002 Lynn Clements, former Deputy Director and Interim Director, was officially named the Executive Director of the Virginia Marine Science Museum and the City of Virginia Beach Director of the Department of Museums and Cultural Arts.

January 1, 2002 C. Mac Rawls, Executive Director of the Virginia Marine Science Museum and the City of Virginia Beach Director of the Department of Museums and Cultural Arts retires.

n Pavilio arsh M e ! h e T let comp

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May 2005 Initiation of Windows to the World capital campaign, the Aquarium’s third capital campaign. This would eventually become the Restless Planet exhibit.

July 1, 2004 Based on the recommendations of the staff and VMSM Foundation, the Virginia Beach City Council endorses the facility’s name change to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.

May 30, 2014 The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium had its official “rope” cutting ceremony.

The following day, The Adventure Park opened to the public.

joying ssoms en Mayor Se rk! nture Pa the Adve

January 4, 2015 The National Geographic 3D Theater opened.

March 2015 November 2010 Work begins on the Aquarium & Owls Creek Master Plan, laying the foundation for the Aquarium’s expansion and development of the surrounding area for the next 25 years.

The Aquarium Foundation’s fourth capital campaign was initiated. The goal is to renovate the twenty-year-old Owls Creek Marsh Pavilion and construct the Mid-Atlantic Marine Animal Conservation Center. The Mid-Atlantic Marine Animal Conservation Center is the first of four research centers called for in the master plan.

February 14, 2015

October 2015

The Virginia Aquarium holds its first public Sea Adventures boat trip from its private, on-site dock.

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center completed the first permitted importation of Tomistoma from a range country since 1974.

June 14, 2011 Virginia Aquarium celebrates its 25th anniversary; Mayor Will Sessoms proclaims it Virginia Aquarium Day and Rep. Scott Rigell reads a declaration of the Aquarium’s accomplishments before Congress.

November 21, 2009 The Restless Planet exhibit opens to the public.

Aquar ium st trans aff portin g the Tomist new oma in to the exhibit

SUMMER QUARTER

DETACH AND KEEP FOR QUICK REFERENCE

P RO G R A M A ND EVEN TS GUI D E SPECIAL EVENTS Special events are free with admission, unless an event fee is listed.

World Oceans Day June 4–8 | 11am–3pm The Virginia Aquarium will make a splash as we celebrate World Oceans Day 2016!

Explore the world of oysters through educational programs and activities on the Marsh Overlook.

BAY & OCEAN PAVILION

Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip

Wildflower Wednesdays June 22–August 31 | 2–3pm Each Wednesday guests are invited to tour our Wildflower Garden with members of the Aquarium’s horticulture team. Crafts and activities will be available.

BAY & OCEAN PAVILION

Sponsored by Whole Foods, these weekly programs are created just for the little ones.

Included with membership and admission.

Programs last about 30 minutes. Adults must accompany child during program.

Kung Fu Panda 3

Toddler Tuesdays

July 8 | 6:30pm MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE Kick back and enjoy a screening of the most recent installment of the Kung Fu Panda franchise on Virginia’s largest movie screen.

Free for members. Registration required.

Call (757) 385-FISH.

June 10 | 6:30pm MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE

June 11 | 8–9am MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE Kick off the Aquarium’s 30th anniversary with a special member-exclusive early morning peek. Meet animal and exhibit care staff and see how the Aquarium is cared for each morning before it opens.

BAY & OCEAN PAVILION

Mascot Mania June 11 | 9am–12pm Celebrate the Aquarium’s 30th anniversary with us and some of our mascot friends!

You’re sure to see some familiar faces.

Free with admission.

BAY & OCEAN PAVILION

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Every Tuesday | 10am, 11am & 12:30pm Bring your little ones for this ageappropriate program that includes story time, songs, and an Aquarium adventure.

MARSH PAVILION

Toddler Trek Every Thursday | 11am Join us for an exploration session for early learners to discover a new animal, color, and shape through fun outdoor activities. Takes place inside during inclement weather.

MARSH PAVILION

Kick back and enjoy a screening of the most recent installment of the Alvin and the Chipmunks franchise on Virginia’s largest movie screen. Free for members.

Registration required. Call (757) 385-FISH.

Early Opening

TODDLER PROGRAMS

Puppet Shows Shark Shenanigans July 9–12 | 11am–3pm Celebrate one of the oceans most mysterious residents…Sharks! Educational programs, Curiosity Cart presentations and keeper talks will focus on conservation efforts aimed at ensuring survival of this keystone species.

BAY & OCEAN PAVILION

World Tomistoma Day August 5 | 11am–3pm Activity stations, carts, and keeper talks will highlight this endangered crocodilian species. See our resident Tomistoma and learn how the Virginia Aquarium is a world leader in Tomistoma conservation efforts.

BAY & OCEAN PAVILION

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | SUMMER 2016

June 21, July 19, & August 16 10am, 11am & 12:30pm On the third Tuesday of every month, our Toddler Tuesday features a live-action puppet show to accompany our story time.

MARSH PAVILION

Nature Play Place June 17–September 4 | 11am–3pm Located near the Marsh Pavilion, Nature Play Place is a fun outdoor area open daily for children 8 and under to use their imagination and explore nature.

Weather permitting.

NATURE TRAIL

DISCOVERY DAYS Geared for ages 4–6, these programs include age-appropriate discussions, activities and crafts. $7 members, $10 nonmembers. Advance registration required.

Call (757) 385-0278 or email programs@ virginiaaquarium.com to register.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES Go beyond the Aquarium glass for a closer look. Reservations required by noon the day of the program. Book online or call (757) 385-FISH. Some age and height restrictions apply. Must be able to climb stairs.

Sea Turtles Discovery Days is getting an overhaul with brand new activities, themes, and programming. The last Discovery Day program for the summer will held May 19.

Check back in September when we roll out the new Discover Days.

SEA ADVENTURES Virginia Aquarium boat trips engage adults, families and student groups in coastal marine ecology by providing opportunities to observe dolphins, whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat. Sightings not guaranteed.

Monday, Wednesday & Friday | 1pm

Dolphin Discoveries

Go above the Chesapeake Light Tower Aquarium to observe aquarists conducting a feeding and behavioral training session with the sea turtles. 45 minutes.

March–October Check website for dates, times, & special trips.

$15 Members | $20 Non-members BAY & OCEAN PAVILION

Above & Beyond Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday | 12:30pm Tour selected service areas for a peek at the “inner workings” of a public aquarium and find out how we care for our fish and other marine animals. 45 minutes.

$15 Members | $20 Non-members BAY & OCEAN PAVILION

Take an unforgettable 90-minute excursion exploring for Virginia’s most common and charismatic marine mammal, bottlenose dolphins!

$18 Members | $20 Non-members AQUARIUM DOCK

Ocean Collections Wednesdays: June 22–August 31 | 1pm This 75 minute cruise, led by Aquarium educators, allows participants to collect and observe a variety of local fish and invertebrates up close and personal.

$18 Members | $20 Non-members AQUARIUM DOCK

NURTURING NATURALISTS These one-hour guided nature play sessions are geared toward families with children 10 & under. Activities help families foster a love of nature in children, while inspiring family outdoor play, curiosity, and adventure. Free with admission.

CHANGING EXHIBIT Smokey Bear & Woodsy Owl: Home Sweet Home Through September 18 Join Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl as they bring you and your family into the outdoors and show you easy ways to help protect our planet. Journey through urban, woodland, and stream settings and discover ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Free with admission.

BAY & OCEAN PAVILION

Nature Play June 17 | 9am–1pm Rediscover the joys of nature with your child in the Virginia Aquarium’s Nature Play Place. Play nature-based games and activities with your child that inspire families and connect them to the outdoors.

NATURE TRAIL

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JUST FOR KIDS

Let’s learn about

OYSTERS! Family Activity Oysters filter water and help keep bay waters clean.

Why does acidity of the ocean matter?

The acidity of the world’s oceans depends on the amount of carbon dioxide dissolved in the water. As more carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, more carbon dioxide is dissolved into the oceans. This increases the acidity of the ocean. Let’s learn how acidity effects the shells of marine organisms like oysters.

What You’ll Need 2 Chicken Eggs 2 Bowls Vinegar Water Sharpie Marker

gills

Oysters breathe with gills like fish.

Oysters, like other invertebrates, don't have a backbone.

Set-up: With the marker, write “water” on one of the eggs and “vinegar” on the other. Place one egg in each bowl. Pour water into the bowl that contains the egg labeled “water,” and vinegar into the bowl that contains the egg labeled “vinegar”. Fill the bowls to completely submerge the eggs. Wait 24 hours.

After 24 hours, remove the liquid from the bowls and examine the eggs. What do you notice about the eggs’ shells?

What Happened?

Egg shells are made of calcium carbonate just like oyster shells, making them a great substitute for oysters in our activity. Vinegar is acidic, and represents an acidic ocean. You’ll notice after 24 hours the shell on the egg in vinegar will have started to dissolve. In the less acidic “ocean” (the bowl with water), the egg shell remains unchanged. In acidic solutions, calcium carbonate breaks down.

If the oceans become too acidic, shelled organisms like oysters will not be able to grow shells.

“Mac, why did the Aquarium pile up all those oyster shells in the marsh? And look! They littered the marsh with cinder blocks, too!”

No, Charlie. Those are called oyster reefs.

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Baby oysters float around and attach to a hard surface and begin to grow. Oysters are vital to the bay ecosystem, and these structures will help increase their population numbers.

FAN PHOTOS

SEND US YOUR FAVORITE PHOTOS TAKEN AT THE AQUARIUM

The Virginia Aquarium is home to over 7,000 The top picks will be included in VAQ. Send a max of 3 high resolution jpeg files to fish, close 200 species, and we can’t help VAQmag@VirginiaAquarium.com. Sending photos grants thetoVirginia Aquarium the right but get excited about them.

Our staff are truly to use the photos in promotional materials. Please limit attachments to 10MB per email. fish finatics! We hope you’ll love learning about some of our favorite fish.

FAMILY FUN

MELISSA JARRELL

UNDER THE SEA KAITRIN YOUNG

SCUBA FUN

CHRISTAL MARSHALL

SAY CHEESE!

CHRIS & TAMMY ANNERS

ISABEL

DIANE DALES

TURTLE TIME

KACEE CRANDALL

SUMMER 2016 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

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EXPERT Q&A

HOLLY BLACKWOOD AQUARIST ASSISTANT What do you do for the Aquarium?

I’m an aquarist assistant. I care for all our fishes, aquatic invertebrates, and turtles. My job includes preparing and distributing diets, training, diving exhibits, and a whole lot of scrubbing.

What do you do on an average day?

On a usual day I am responsible for a section of aquariums. I monitor the health and welfare of all the animals living in them. I'm also responsible for maintaining an optimal environment for those animals.

Why did you choose this line of work?

What is your favorite animal to work with, and why?

I’ve had a strong passion for animal conservation since childhood.

I wanted to join the team working to protect marine life as we are constantly learning more about this diverse ecosystem every day.

I really enjoy working with our spotted eagle rays. Daily training is enriching and promotes better husbandry practices. Some people don’t realize that we use many of the same training techniques with rays as we do with seals and other marine mammals.

What is your favorite exhibit in the Aquarium and why?

I love the Norfolk Canyon exhibit, not only because I’m partial to sharks, but because it’s an incredible glimpse into the ecosystem right off our shores.

Holly uses color specific targets to attract the Aquarium eagle rays.

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VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | SUMMER 2016

What do you like best about your work?

I take pride in the various opportunities I have to contribute to conservation.

Every day I get to care for threatened species, and participate in breeding programs and important research.

STRANDING

SEA TURTLE R&R

REHABILITATED & RELEASED

BY KRISTI N E WI LLI A M S

Stranded sea turtles are admitted into rehabilitation at the Marine Animal Care Center for a variety of reasons. Treatment is based on stranding cause and may involve antibiotics, pain medication, wound care, fluid therapy, or nutritional support. Each patient is closely monitored by staff to assess their progress and detect any changes in their health. Blood work, x-rays, and other routine diagnostics help assess the health of each turtle while it’s being rehabilitated.

Once a turtle is deemed healthy, several things need to happen to prepare it for release. Preparations often take two weeks to complete. First, the turtles are taken off medications. This allows the turtle to eliminate residual medications from its system. During this time, staff monitors the turtle to confirm a full recovery. Following the two weeks, each release candidate is outfitted with numbered flipper tags and a Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tag. The PIT tag is similar to a microchip you might Flipper tags are located get for your pet. These tags help identify o n a r e a r f l i p p e r. the turtle and provide basic information to rehabilitators in case it strands in the future. Acoustic or satellite tags are occasionally attached, allowing the turtles' movements to be monitored.

Once a turtle is prepped for release, the Stranding Response Team begins looking at the external factors that go into a release. Water temperature is one crucial factor. Sea turtles are cold-blooded, so they rely on their environment to keep their bodies at an optimal temperature. In Virginia, our coastal waters are only in this temperature range during the summer and early fall. During winter and spring months, rehabilitated sea turtles are transported to Georgia or Florida, or taken offshore to the Gulf Stream, where waters are warmer. Once coastal Virginia waters are warm enough, turtles are released locally as near as possible to the location they were found.

Sometimes the Stranding Response Team is lucky enough to host a public sea turtle release. It is a great way for our local community to see these animals go back to their oceanic home.

Releases can happen quickly, so be sure to check Facebook and the e-newsletter for any information!

Year

Admitted

Released

2012

27

10

2013

28

26

2014

32

26

2015

61

53

2016

17

--

RESCUE T h e S t r a n d i n g R e s p o n s e Te a m i s on call 24/7 and responds to a variety of calls.

REHABILITATE P hys ic al exams an d no t ing t he progress are important parts of the rehabilitation process.

RELEASE O n c e a t u r t l e i s h e a l t h y, t h e y a r e released. An increase in rescue c alls h ave le d to m o re releases.

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Exhibit open through September 18 Smokey Bear & Woodsy Owl: Home Sweet Home was developed by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in collaboration with the US Forest Service. Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl are protected by Congressional law and are used with permission from the US Forest Service. All Rights Reserved. 16 USC 580p-4 & 18 USC 711a.

Behind-the-Scenes Sea Turtle & Shark Feedings Add a behind-the-scenes experience to your visit! Learn more about what it takes to care for our collection of animals.

$15 Members $20 Non-Members For more information, visit VirginiaAquarium.com

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

KYLE SNELL

BY C R A I G S I M M O N S

Kyle Snell, a Marine Biology major at Old Dominion University, volunteers in the Aquarium’s Fishes department. He prepares food, assists with feedings, sanitizes equipment, collects and logs water samples, and does just about anything else related to the basic care of the animals. He began volunteering with the Aquarium in hopes of getting more hands on experience with animals, and that’s just what he has received. “It’s an immersive and educational experience,” Kyle remarks. “I’ve learned about a wide variety of animals through a hands on approach and from knowledgeable staff members.” Kyle remains a dedicated volunteer despite a hectic school schedule and working two jobs. He has accrued nearly six-hundred hours of volunteer service in less than two years. What two words would he use to describe his volunteer experience? “Wet and stinky,” Kyle jokes. You can count on Kyle’s cheerful disposition and unwavering work ethic no matter how messy he is at the end of the day.

For information about volunteering, call (757) 385-0274 or visit www.VirginiaAquarium.com/volunteer

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AT I O N SE C TCIO ON NSTEIRTVLE

ENDANGERED GIANT

POND TURTLES B Y LO R I L AW S O N

Malaysian pond turtles are under tremendous ecological pressures, and wild populations are on the decline. Breeding populations in zoos and aquariums may be critical to their survival. Here at the Virginia Aquarium, we are working diligently to learn more about our Malaysian giant pond turtles (Orlitia borneensis). Unfortunately, this endangered species proves to be elusive, both in the wild and captivity.

Virtually nothing is known about their behavior. This is especially true of their breeding and mating behavior.

Candling is a method used in e m b r yo l o g y t o s t u d y t h e g r o w t h a n d d e ve l o p m e n t o f a n e g g .

Identifying and documenting breeding behavior and egg development is crucial to the survival of these turtles. The Aquarium is involved in ongoing documentation of our breeding pair’s behavior and egg production. We are very fortunate to be one of only thirteen Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) institutions in the country where visitors can come see this species on exhibit. Only five institutions have successfully produced hatchlings. Just last year, the Houston Zoo became the only institution to artificially incubate Malaysian pond turtle eggs in the US. Breeding behaviors of both our male and female turtles have been observed and thoroughly documented. In fact, we are the first known institution in the world to observe and video the mating of this species. The egg development of the female

FUN FACTS • Eggs of the Malaysian giant pond turtle are very large, over 3 inches long.

• Adults can be almost 3 feet in length and can weigh over 100 pounds.

• Malaysian giant pond turtles are

endangered, largely due to their desirability in East Asian food markets and traditional Asian medicine.

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has been monitored with regular ultrasounds and radiographs. In 2015, our female, “Thai,” laid 5 eggs.

While the eggs were not fertile, it was unsurprising, as this was her first time laying them. Turtles are frequently unsuccessful in their first year of breeding.

Over the past year, we have observed mating behaviors between our male and female many times, and are hopeful for fertile eggs in the future. A number of factors go into successful breeding, but many of these factors are still unknown to the scientific community.

The Aquarium continues to add to that body of scientific knowledge and will continue to observe, document, and study these incredible animals.

SUPPORT

WHY WE GIVE

BY KEVIN & P EN N Y O’CON N OR , D ON OR S & MEMBER S

We grew up here, so we have fond memories of all of the family-friendly attractions in Hampton Roads. And we both love the water — it’s a huge part of the culture of our region. We became members of the Virginia Aquarium five years ago because it’s a fun educational experience for our kids every time we visit. The Aquarium provides a great resource to our community, allowing people to learn about the ocean and waterways in our own backyards.

We’re excited about partnering with the Virginia Aquarium Sensible Seafood Program on a signature beer that pairs beautifully with seafood and summer flavors. O’Connor Brewing Company’s (OBC) Sensible Kolsch launched May 22nd at a Sensible Seafood Program Kickoff Celebration at O’Connor Brewing Company. The OBC Sensible Kolsch is available exclusively at Farm Fresh Supermarkets, and a portion of every bottle sold will benefit the Virginia Aquarium Sensible Seafood Program.

Our children love the Aquarium because they get to see some of their favorite animals. We have an 8 year-old and a 5 year-old, and they especially love to see the sharks and the touch aquariums. No visit is complete without seeing the otters! We love that our children are learning how to be good stewards of the ocean and the environment.

It’s impressive that the Commonwealth of Virginia is ranked third in the nation for seafood production. We know it’s important to take care of that bounty so that our children, and their children, can enjoy seafood for years to come. We’re happy we can work with the Virginia Aquarium to make such a positive impact on our environment.

The Virginia Aquarium raises money through the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation to support our educational programming, the live animal exhibits, and other important conservation, research, and educational initiatives.

Join the O’Connor’s in support of the Virginia Aquarium. Every gift makes a huge difference.

THERE ARE THREE EASY WAYS TO GIVE. EVERY GIFT MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE. Visit VirginiaAquarium. com/SavetheOcean

Call 757-385-0262

Mail donations to: Virginia Aquarium Attn: Development 717 General Booth Blvd.

Virginia Beach, VA 23451

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THANK YOU! Contributions from January 1, 2016 – March 31, 2016 ANNUAL FUND Amazon Smiles Beverly Baird Martha Brantley CFC of South Hampton Roads Antoinette Croly Melissa S. Day Hunter Dorroh Lisa Grigolite Sanci M. Hall In Honor of Emma Hattemer Amanda Lugo William Hetzler Edward Hewitt John Jay & Ola Hill Krueger Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation June J. Hoye In Memory of Robert J. Kerrigan Robert Armour Donald Bischoff Mary Ann Jolliffe Edith Lytle Kelly Van Aken Carol J. Walsh James & Kim Zeleny Kendall King Kroger Laura Kucsan

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT BY GIVING AT

www.VirginiaAquarium.com/SaveTheOcean

Mary P. Liggio Andrew Mathis Julius S. Miller In Honor of Owen Schmura Lucas Schmura Morgan Stanley United Way South Hampton Roads Laura Wenslaff Cody Whitlock E. Thompson Witte AQUAPALS ADOPTIONS Brogan Croly Cameron Fenning Joseph T. Grigolite EDUCATION B.M. Stanton Foundation Claiborne W. Gooch, Jr. Charitable Trust In Memory of Robert J. Kerrigan Linda Polakovsky New England Aquarium Debra Schwartz Thistle Needleworks Youth Foundation Service Club of Virginia Beach EXHIBITS Surfrider Foundation David Comer Frederic Wurster

RESEARCH & CONSERVATION Beth Bailey Michael Bates Michelle Brown Cape Henry Rotary Foundation Chesbay Distributing, LLC Cortina Productions, Inc. Kristina Dasher Alexander K. Girevendulis In Memory of Robert Gohr Jillanne Gohr Hansen Family Foundation James Lant Lynnhaven River Garden Club Lawrence Megan Renee K. Murphy Page Middle School – 7th Grade In Honor of Sowmya Narra Chandrasekhar Narra Susan Simches In Memory of Ruth B. Stein Deborah Stein Virginia Living Museum Vogt Oyster Company, LLC BATTEN FUND Batten Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation

NOW PLAYING Daily at the Virginia Aquarium

Trailers, show times, and tickets at virginiaaquarium.com/visit/movies 22

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | SUMMER 2016

Climbing & Zip Line Fun! KIDS - TEENS - ADULTS - GROUPS Reserve Now: ClimbVB.com Use Discount Promo: VAQ6

The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium SM

801 General Booth Blvd. - Virginia Beach, VA 23451 Ph: (757) 385-4947 - www.ClimbVB.com

Make your day

AT VIRGINIA AQUARIUM

Unforgettable

Members get a

10% discount

on event rentals!

SUMMER 2016 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

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717 GENERAL BOOTH BLVD VIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23451 (757) 385-FISH VirginiaAquarium.com A PUBLICATION OF THE VIRGINIA AQUARIUM & MARINE SCIENCE CENTER FOUNDATION The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks & Aquariums, and World Association of Zoos & Aquariums.

Postmaster: Please deliver by June 30, 2016

Dolphin Discoveries Boat leaves from the Aquarium!

Visit VirginiaAquarium.com for information

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VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | SUMMER 2016