Winter 2020 VAQ

WINTER 2020

Virginia Aquarium Quarterly Member Magazine

SANTA IS HERE! MEET SANTA & ENJOY OTHER WINTER HAPPENINGS WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

1

MEMBERSHIP QUICK FACTS HOURS OF OPERATION

9 –5 AM

CONTACT INFORMATION (757) 385-0279

PM

VirginiaAquarium.com Membership@VirginiaAquarium.com

Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas

DAILY ADMISSIONS PER MEMBERSHIP LEVEL The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science

INDIVIDUAL

FAMILY

INDIVIDUAL + 1

FAMILY + 1

Center’s mission is to inspire conservation of the marine environment through education, research and sustainable practices.

WINTER 2020, VOLUME 9, ISSUE 1 VAQ is published four times a year by the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center located at 717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ashley Marsh

MEMBERSHIP PERKS Discounted Behind-the-Scenes Sea Turtles | $15 Above & Beyond | $15

$

Discounts Cafe | 10% off Aquarium store | 10% off Additional admission tickets | $18 & $12

Cardholder must be present during each visit. Want to increase the impact of your membership?

Visit VirginiaAquarium.com/SaveTheOcean and make a gift to the Aquarium Fund today.

COPY EDITORS Matthew Klepeisz, Taylor Saunders ADVISOR Caryl Thompson CONTRIBUTORS

M E RM A I D

MONDAYS

Alexis Rabon, Ashton Matheny, Barb Beverage, Charlie Lawton, Hales Miller, Jenny Hill, Julie Levans, Justin Fuller,

T i c ke ts on sa le

Karen Burns, Karolyn Walker, Leslie Clements,

N OW

Mark Swingle, Mike Mizell, Morgan Sherrill, Rachel Clark, Shawn Reid, Suzanne Savage, Tanya Will, Trish Carrier, Vicki Krauter

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.

APRIL 6 • 13 • 20 • 27

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED INFORMATION & TICKETS AT VIRGINIAAQUARIUM.COM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Upcoming Events Mark your calendars!

18

4

Nurseries Sea turtles & coral

Holiday Happenings

19

Working at the Aquarium

6

5

Every Dollar Counts | We appreciate your continued support.

12

Program & Events Guide | Join us for our winter events!

15

Gift Guide | The perfect gift will probably come from our Aquarium store. Look here first!

16

Kid's Page | Our changing exhibit has taken over the kids page!

21

Meet Charlie | Our Dive Safety Officer has an important job at the Aquarium.

On the cover Meet Santa on Saturdays and Sundays through December 22 at 10:30am in the Red Sea Tunnel.

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

3

Upcoming Events Very Eric Carle Member Preview January 25 | 9am -5pm A new exhibit is inching its way into the Virginia Aquarium! Join us for a Members Only Exclusive Preview of a Very Eric Carle. Explore activities inspired by five of Eric Carle’s classic books: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Very Quiet Cricket, The Very Lonely Firefly, The Very Clumsy Click Beetle and The Very Busy Spider. Experience hands on fun with this play and learn exhibit and become the Very Hungry Caterpillar as you follow his path and so much more! This changing exhibit will open to the public on January 26.

Youth Conservation Series March 7 & March 28 Our Youth Conservation Series (YCS) provides multiple opportunities throughout the year for middle and high school-aged students to learn about marine science and conservation. We offer several hands-on field experiences collecting specimens, exploring local habitats, and engaging with animal care specialists. Our next field experience Become a Citizen Scientist is scheduled for Monday, December 30.

YCS also includes two larger events - Youth Ocean Conservation Summit on March 7 and Career Day on March 28.

For more information or to register for a Field Experience, contact us at (757) 385-0278 or programs@virginiaaquarium.com.

4

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020

Every Dollar Counts

By Suzanne Savage The Aquarium Fund provides vital support to help maintain exhibits and care for thousands of animals, provide educational offerings to visitors, offer outreach programs to schools, conduct research and conservation activities, and operate our nationally-recognized Stranding Response Program.

Marvin is a porcupine pufferfish (Diodon hystrix), who you will be able to spot in the Virginia Aquarium’s Norfolk Canyon Aquarium. Gifts to the Aquarium Fund enabled the Aquarium to add Marvin to the collection and manage his care and that of over 7,000 other animals.

This summer, Sarah McCormack, Stranding Response Technician, and Dr. Alex Costidis, Senior Curator, traveled to California to provide assistance to The Marine Mammal Center due to an unusual mortality event related to sea lion pups. The Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Team provided necropsy and rehabilitation expertise.

Assisting stranding network partners in need of help on short notice is made possible through private contributions to the Aquarium.

Children are never too young to become interested in science because of their natural curiosity and love of exploring and experimenting. It is critical to provide age appropriate activities that encourage children’s scientific tendencies. The Virginia Aquarium continues to be a leader among aquariums in offering age-appropriate science programs for children 2-8. Educational offerings to visitors and school groups are supported each year through contributions to the Aquarium.

Support the Aquarium Fund To make a gift, use the envelope provided in this publication, visit www.VirginiaAquarium.com/SaveTheOcean, contact the Development Office at 757-385-0378, or email tcarrier@virginiaaquarium.com

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

5

ON THE JOB

Have you ever wondered what it takes to work at the Aquarium?

While it might be the animals that attract so many people to visit, it is the individuals working here that make the Aquarium a truly special place. No two employees have taken the same path, and you just might be surprised by the unconventional journeys that have led some of them to the jobs they now perform.

Senior Aquarist Jillian Sawyna

I am responsible for the overall health and welfare of my assigned animal collections and their environments (particularly those containing sharks/ rays). I also lead a team of husbandry staff, volunteers, divers, and interns.

What is your educational background and how has it served to help you succeed professionally?

I have a Bachelor of Science in marine biology and a Master of Science in biology. While my undergraduate

Membership Coordinator Taylor Saunders

I ensure that we offer the best services, activities and benefits for our Members.

What has surprised you by your own personal career path?

Growing up I always wanted to manage my own show barn, combining business with my love of horses. I worked part-time as ticket seller during college, eventually moving to my current

6

education gave me a solid knowledge framework, my graduate program enabled me to master skills I use continuously, such as animal collection, laboratory work, research techniques, teaching in academic and public settings, and scientific writing.

What has surprised you by your own personal career path?

This field is just as much about the people as it is about animals. To truly excel as a biologist, you must know how to effectively communicate and foster good working relationships with your coworkers.

position. I never left because I fell in love with the people and animals here at the Aquarium.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

If you realize that you have a new career dream that wasn’t in your original life plan, go for it! Self-doubt and fear are normal, but don’t let them hold you back from going after what you really want.

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020

Exhibit Technician Bryan Lotuaco

I create and maintain mechanical, electrical, carpentry, and audio/visual projects at the Aquarium.

What is your educational background and how has it served to help you succeed professionally?

Most of the education I have received is either self-taught, or through a series of YouTube tutorial videos on many different subjects.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

We live in an age where we can learn so much online, so don’t neglect sources like YouTube, Vimeo, and others to assist in growing your knowledge.

President & CEO

Cynthia W. Spanoulis My job is multi-faceted. I oversee projects, manage resources, and direct all aspects of the Aquarium. I make decisions regarding revenue generation, policies, and facility management, and am responsible for all employees and volunteers. Additionally, I am the Executive Director for the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Foundation, the non-profit 501 (c)(3) arm that supports the Aquarium financially.

What has surprised you by your own personal career path?

Some think working at a fun facility like the Aquarium is all rainbows and butterflies and that’s not true. You have good days and bad days, just like in any other industry. Over the past 30 plus years I have learned that you can always have a positive influence on the environment in which you work because people respond to your positive outlook and want to be part of exciting things.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

Every person you meet is a potential door to a new opportunity, personally or professionally. Build good bridges, even in that just-for-now job, because you never know how they’ll weave into the larger picture of your life.

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

7

School & Youth Educator

appreciation for the natural world with guests and employees alike.

I present and develop onsite educational programs for school groups and extracurricular youth groups, such as Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

Career paths are not always linear. I had every intention of continuing my academic career immediately after receiving my undergraduate degree but found so much satisfaction in engaging with the public in informal science settings. My advice would be to find opportunities to volunteer or intern at a STEM center, museum, zoo, or aquarium.

Dana Wright

What has surprised you by your own personal career path?

My passion for informal science education began when I started working as a program specialist and animal ambassador keeper for a non-profit science institution.

Working at the Aquarium has allowed me to share my

Chief Development Officer Suzanne Savage

My job is to plan, direct, and implement fundraising activities for the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation and to secure sponsorships for various events and exhibits.

What is your educational background and how has it served to help you succeed professionally?

In college, while earning a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science, I worked on political campaigns which gave

me first-hand experience in fundraising.

I was able to transition my fundraising skills to the private sector by working for non-profits.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

I am a strong believer in a liberal arts degree. Let your education teach you how to learn and think, so you will be able to adjust to our ever-changing world.

Brand Manager Ashley Marsh

I do a lot of graphic design work for the Aquarium. My goal is to ensure all our advertising & marketing materials are branded, consistent, and top notch.

What has surprised you by your own personal career path?

I grew up wanting to be a marine biologist, but my talents pointed me in a different direction. Now I get to blend my passions with my education and skills to help conserve the marine environment AND see adorable animals.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

Design for causes you’re passionate about and your projects will always turn out 100 times better.

8

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020

Stranding Response Technician: Necropsy Manager Alex Epple I respond to live and dead stranded marine mammals and sea turtles, medically treat rehabilitation patients, manage marine mammal stranding data, and oversee our necropsies.

What is your educational background and how has it served to help you succeed professionally?

I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education & Studio Art and later a Master of Science in marine biology, focusing my research on pulmonary physiology with belugas. In addition to my coursework and research, I think my varied jobs (volunteer, elementary school teacher, bartender, waitress, avian rehab technician, college professor, and research scientist) have helped prepare me for all the widely varied and predictably unpredictable aspects of stranding response!

What has surprised you by your own personal career path?

I think what stands out the most is how much I still have to learn, and even more importantly, how much the field of science as a whole still needs to learn. The data gaps in “basic science” are astounding sometimes!

Life Support Operator I Ryan Brown

I assist in the operation, maintenance, construction, and repair of live exhibit and aquarium life support systems.

What is your educational background and how has it served to help you succeed professionally?

While I don’t have a formal education of any kind, I learned everything I know from the group of guys I work with. Over the years I began to learn the ins and outs of life support and owe all of that to my mentors Jacob Byron and Byron Waller. They took the time to teach me and help me get up to speed.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

Get involved and learn as much as you can. The amount of knowledge you must possess to be an effective life support operator is extensive.

We are electricians, plumbers, and engineers on any given day. Be extremely detail-oriented, as it’s the smallest things that can have the largest impact.

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

9

Financial Specialist Tiffany Panko

I help maintain the Aquarium’s financial records and ensure compliance with accounting regulations. A few of my duties include preparing financial statements and bank reconciliations and assisting with the development of our fiscal year budget.

What has surprised you by your own personal career path?

It surprises me to think that my career path started working part-time here on the admission

front line. I was later given the opportunity to become a full-time staff member as an Account Clerk, which eventually led to my current position as a Financial Specialist.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

Keep learning and adapting.

Whether there are changes within the industry or the organization, it’s important to be able to adjust to any situation.

Exhibit Tech - Animal Ambassadors & Quarantine Crystal "Chris" Equels

I care for our Animal Ambassadors, which includes a wide variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles.

What is your educational background and how has it served to help you succeed professionally?

I have Bachelor of Science in Biology that has given me a foundation upon which to build and develop skills I use daily in my job and have been able to progress from a part-time keeper to Senior Keeper in my section.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

Volunteer!! Almost everyone starts out volunteering in some type of animal field before they get a paying job. Find internships and get experience working with all different taxa. You never know where you will find your passion. I had no idea I would become such a bird nerd.

Veterinary Technician Jennifer "J.R." Richardson

Working closely with the Aquarium’s veterinarian, I perform medical procedures and laboratory tests. I obtain diagnostic specimens, maintain medical records, and maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked clinic environment.

What is your educational background and how has it served to help you succeed professionally?

After earning an Associate of Applied Science Degree in veterinary technology, I worked as a licensed veterinary technician in general practice, emergency medicine, and with exotics, 10

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020

preparing me for the vast array of animals (finned, scaled, and furry) at the Aquarium.

What advice would you give to someone either just starting out in life or seeking a career change into your field?

Much of a veterinary technician’s training is on the job and many zoos/aquariums require 3 years of experience as a licensed veterinary technician. If you are interested in aquatics or zoology, earn a degree from an AVMA accredited program, and seek experience working with exotics and emergency medicine.

Volunteer or participate in an internship at a zoo/aquarium to enhance your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

n T r e t s g a er E SALAMANDER Ambystoma tigrinum

Tiger salamanders are the largest terrestrial salamander in the country.

The largest one known was 13 inches long!

Eastern tiger salamanders are listed as endangered in Virginia.

Being found throughout North America, this species has one of the widest ranges of all salamanders.

They can live 12 to 15 years or more.

Tiger salamanders feed at night on insects, worms, frogs & even other salamanders.

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

11

Programs & Events Guide DECEMBER 2019 - FEBRUARY 2020 | DETACH AND KEEP FOR QUICK REFERENCE!

SPECIAL EVENTS Special events are free with admission, unless otherwise noted.

Sundays with Santa December 1, 8, 15 & 22 | 11:30am–2:30pm Snap a photo and visit our jolly special guest before he heads back to the North Pole!

Promenade

Scuba Santa Every Saturday & Sunday through December 22 | 10:30am Watch Santa as he dives in our Red Sea Tunnel with some of his favorite sea animals; Mena the zebra shark and spotted eagle rays!

Red Sea Tunnel

Countdown to 2020 December 31 | 10am-Noon Children and adults get ready for the New Year! Join us for story time, games, activities, and dancing!

Classroom

Extreme Experiments January 11 & 12 | 11am-3pm Boom! POP! Fizzzz! Be prepared for whacky, messy, and scientifically accurate fun! Guests of all ages are welcome to participate in a variety of scientific experiments that they can recreate for their friends and family at home.

Classroom

Volunteer Open House

Women in Science Day

January 23 |4–5:30pm Department representatives will be available to answer your volunteer questions, and you just might meet an animal or two! Youth, adult, and internship positions are available.

When you give 100 hours of volunteer service, a free Aquarium membership is given! Don’t forget to ask about the Volunteer League scholarship for high school graduates. Call (757)-385-0274 or email aquavols@virginiaaquarium. com for more information. Summer 2020 Youth Volunteer Applications are being accepted now through 3pm on Feb 28.

Classroom

February 8 | 11am–3pm Discover the women behind the science!

Meet women in STEM, test your knowledge of well-known female scientists throughout history, and become a citizen scientist ahead of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Promenade

Very Eric Carle Exhibit Preview MEMBER EXCLUSIVE January 25 | 9am–5pm Join us for our member exclusive preview of our new changing exhibit before it opens to the general public on January 26.

Changing Exhibit Gallery

E-Cycling January 25 | 9am–Noon The Aquarium, in partnership with Goodwill Industries, City of Virginia Beach Public Works, and TFC Recycling, will host this semi-annual event. Drop off your personal electronics or household hazardous waste at the Aquarium East Parking Lot and ensure that it is recycled and disposed of properly!

East Parking Lot

Member Appreciation Month MEMBER EXCLUSIVE Month of February Virginia Aquarium Members are “turtlely”awesome and, to show our appreciation, we are throwing you a special “sealebration” for the whole month of February! Members can enjoy special offers during the month of February.

Main Building

12

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020

Great Backyard Bird Count February 15 | 11am–3pm Join us for the annual global event that promotes citizen science as everyone watches and records the amazing local birds. Don’t miss the puppet shows, animal ambassador encounters, and bird enrichment!

Main Building

Clean the Creek February 15 | 9–11am Show your love for waterways by joining the us for a cleanup of Owls Creek and surrounding areas. Individual volunteers, work teams, and military groups are welcome to clean by foot or personal kayak. To register, email the volunteer office no later than noon on Feb 4; aquavols@virginiaaquarium.com.

Owls Creek

Save the Dates!

Mermaid Mondays 2020 April 6, 13, 20, 27 | 6-8:30pm Mermaids will be visiting the Aquarium in April this year! For a complete list of activities and prices visit VirginiaAquarium.com. Tickets are on sale now.

Main Building

Toddler Programs

S.T.E.A.M.

Boat Trips

These specially designed programs help encourage lifelong learning and are included with admission.

Sponsored by Bob & Leslie Fort.

Geared for ages 3–7 and focused on integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Reservations required. Call (757) 385–0278 or email programs@VirginiaAquarium.com to register. $7 Members; $9 Non-members.

Sponsored by Bob & Leslie Fort.

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.

Visit VAQboats.com to purchase tickets.

Ewww! Bacteria

Whales & Wildlife

December 4 | 3:30–4:30pm

Check website for dates, times, and special trips.

Toddler Tuesdays Every Tuesday | 10am & 11am Bring your little ones for this ageappropriate program that includes story time, songs, and activities.

Classroom

Learn about bacteria and discover the ways our bodies protect us from bacteria through hands-on activities.

December 18 | 3:30–4:30pm

Join us for a 2-2.5 hour encounter to search for some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures that visit Virginia’s coastal winter waters; whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds.

Aquarium Boat Dock 717 General Booth Blvd.

Join us as we experiment by mixing household items together and learn why some things react with each other while others do not.

Behind-the-Scenes

Classroom

The Curious Scientist

Classroom

Toddler Trek Every Thursday | 10am & 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.

Changing Exhibit Hallway

Puppet Shows December 17, January 21, February 18 10am & 11am On the third Tuesday of every month, our Toddler Tuesday features a live-action puppet show to accompany storytime.

Classroom

Playtime with Miss Jenny

Wednesdays | 10am–Noon Join Miss Jenny & Friends for playtime, activities and fun.

Wildflower Garden Deck

It takes a lot to keep our Aquarium running, and our Behind-the-Scenes experiences give you a chance to see some of the work we do!

Brrr… It’s Cold January 8 | 3:30–4:30pm Learn what happens to objects when the temperature drops below freezing and how animals have adapted to stay warm in the cold.

Classroom

The Importance of Oxygen January 22 | 3:30–4:30pm Let's experiment to discover how animals, like jellies, fish, and humans, obtain oxygen and make a model of your lungs to take home.

Classroom

I Love Animals February 5 | 3:30–4:30pm Meet some of the Aquarium’s not so cuddly animal ambassadors while learning about food chains and food webs.

Classroom

Outer Space February 19 | 3:30–4:30pm

Above & Beyond* Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, & Sundays | 12:30pm Take a peek at the inner workings of our aquarium and learn how we care for our fish and other marine animals during this tour of selected Aquarium service areas. $15 Members | $20 Non-members Main Building

Sea Turtles* Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays | 1pm Go above the Chesapeake Light Tower Aquarium to observe aquarists conducting a feeding and behavioral training session with our sea turtles. $15 Members | $20 Non-members Main Building

*Reservations are required by noon. Program lasts about 45 minutes. Participants must be at least 8 years old, 48" tall and able to climb stairs. Children under age 13 must be accompanied by a paying participating adult.

There might be micrometeorites in your backyard. Join us as we learn how to search for them and learn how they are formed.

Classroom

Carefully detach and enjoy the salamander poster on the other side once you've been to all our events!

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

13

14

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020

Gift Guide Shark Anatomy Book $21.95

Diver $12.99

Animal Felt Book $12.99

Bamboo Utensil Set $14.99

Shark Research Toyset $18.99

Hand Sanitizer $5.99

Lotion $11.99

Komodo Plush $15.99

Sea Turtle Slate Art Piece $24.99 Shell Bowl $9.99 Ray Earrings $59.99

WE

MEMBERS

50% OFF

ONE ITEM IN THE VIRGINIA AQUARIUM STORES Ray Pendent $39.99

Limit one discount per coupon. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other discounts.

Expires February 28, 2020.

KID'S PAGE PAGE KIDS

FAMILY ACTIVITY

H E X H IB IT O P E N T H R O U G JA N U A R Y 13 , 2 0 2 0 !

Why are many animals at the bottom of the ocean red?

Many animals rely on camouflage to protect themselves from predators or to ambush prey. Let’s find out why red coloration is a good adaptation at the bottom of the ocean.

What You’ll Need Scissors Small bag of M&Ms Time piece that counts seconds

Blue cellophane Black construction paper

Set-up: Cut three strips of 2” x 4” blue cellophane. Open the bag of M&Ms and place them in a pile in the center of the black construction paper. Now, time how long it takes to separate the entire pile of M&Ms into piles of a single colors.

Repeat this step, but this time place a piece of blue cellophane over your eyes like a mask. See how long it takes and how accurately you separate the M&Ms. Do this again using two pieces of cellophane over your eyes and once more using three pieces of cellophane over your eyes.

What Happened?

Layering the blue cellophane over your eyes represented what it is like to try and see colors while traveling deeper and deeper into the ocean. The further you travel down, the harder it is to see and distinguish between the red and the darker colored M&Ms. This happens because red light has a longer wavelength and is more readily absorbed at shallower depths than blue light, which has a shorter wavelength and can travel to deeper depths in the ocean. Red deep-sea animals, therefore, appear to be black and are less visible to prey. This makes being the color red a great adaptation at the bottom of the ocean.

16

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020

Wild Kratts®: Ocean Adventure! was created by Minnesota Children’s Museum and Kratt Brothers Company. Wild Kratts® © 2019 Kratt Brothers Company Ltd/ 9 Story Media Group Inc. Wild Kratts® and Creature Power® are owned by Kratt Brothers Company Ltd.

SHARK TOOTH MATCH The shape of a shark tooth is uniquely specific to the species of shark. The shape of a shark’s tooth is adapted to what and how it eats. Try and match the shark teeth below to the species of shark based on what it likes to eat.

ZEBRA SHARK

A.

(reef mollusks)

SAND TIGER SHARK

B.

(small fish)

GREAT WHITE SHARK

C.

(seals)

TIGER SHARK

D.

(sea turtles) Answers: Zebra shark - D; Sand tiger shark - A; Tiger shark - C

REMEMBER! Visit the Wild Kratts® Ocean Adventure exhibit at the Aquarium to see what happens when a shark loses a tooth.

DEEP SEA ANIMAL ADAPTATIONS It’s very dark at the bottom of the ocean. The anglerfish uses a bioluminescent lure to attract prey.

It’s very cold at the bottom of the ocean. The Atlantic wolffish produces a natural antifreeze to keep its blood flowing.

It’s hard to find food at the bottom of the ocean.

A gulper eel can eat larger prey with its enormous mouth that looks like a pelican’s pouch.

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

17

ANIMAL FEATURE

Nurseries for Conservation

By Julie Levans

Our nursery hallway was overdue for much needed upgrades.

Proceeds from “Night at the Aquarium 2018� enabled us to kick-start the renovations. These new and improved spaces will support two very important conservation efforts; the Loggerhead Sea Turtle Hatchling Program and the AZA Florida Reef Tract Rescue Project.

With the improvements, we were able to expand both nursery labs.

The Sea Turtle Nursery is a long-standing conservation program of the Virginia Aquarium. We have elevated the standard in care by upgrading life support systems and providing larger aquariums.

The new space allows guests to interact with Aquarium staff and observe them while they obtain important growth measurements, prepare daily diets, and monitor these hatchlings during their delicate first year of life. The expansion created more space for sea turtle hatchlings to grow and develop while being on display for guests to watch and enjoy.

We are also now able to provide a safe haven for corals that otherwise might have succumbed to a deadly disease that is affecting corals on the Florida Coast. The Coral Nursery will feature stony corals rescued just off the Florida Coast. Scientists employed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the National Park Service, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are collecting corals from non-infected areas to harvest more than 20 genetically unique coral species. The Virginia Aquarium is one of many facilities that has been deemed a safe-haven for the next several years, but our desire is to return these corals to their ocean homes.

Both of these modernized nurseries will enable us to learn more about our ocean and continue improving and spreading the message of ocean conservation.

18

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020

"...these modernized nurseries will enable us to learn more about our ocean..."

FEATURE

Celebrating Winter Holidays

SCUBA Santa

Saturdays & Sundays through December 22 | 10:30am

By Karen Burns From snowflakes dancing in the Chesapeake Bay Hall, to the twinkling lights and natural garlands decking the trees in the Upland River Room, signs of winter and the holidays can be found throughout the Aquarium during the month of December.

Guests are sure to be delighted by hints of the holidays, both big and small, positioned with care all around the exhibits.

Perhaps there will be decorations festooning the hedgehog, uromastyx, or cobra exhibits. There might be holiday decorations bringing wishes of joy in the Mediterranean Sea aquarium. There could even be a snowman or two at the seal exhibit or fishy gifts in the Red Sea. We know the animals enjoy this time of year too! Special holiday-themed animal enrichment programs are not only great for them, but quite enjoyable for guests to watch. We love giving presents and treats to our animal ambassadors!

The seals and Komodo dragons even get a bit of holiday cheer. Keep your eyes open for all the special holiday treats the animals are enjoying.

One of our more famous holiday guests, Santa Claus, the jolly old elf himself, will return to the Virginia Aquarium this year! Santa can be found diving in the Red Sea Aquarium at 10:30am on Saturdays and Sundays through December 22. Snap a selfie with Santa as he swims with the fishes offering holiday wishes.

On Sundays, through December 22, from 11:30am-2:30pm, Santa and

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

19

his elf can be found in the Promenade Room, on his beachy bench, ready to hear Christmas wishes from children of ALL ages. Guests are welcome to take their own photos or let Photogenic capture this holiday memory.

Complementing our already scheduled weekly toddler programs, our younger guests are invited to a winter themed play area in the classroom from December 21-30.

Play ring-toss with a narwhal, cornhole with a snowman, or tic-tac-toe toss with “snowballs”! Toddlers are sure to enjoy playing in our artificial snow without the risk of Jack Frost nipping at their nose.

Even if the weather outside is frightful, December at the Aquarium is sure to be delightful! We hope that you will choose to join us for all the holiday merriment and joy.

It’s bound to be a magical way to close out the year.

20

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020

Sundays with Santa

Sundays through December 22 | 11:30-2:30pm

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Charlie Lawton Dive Safety Officer

What do you do for the Aquarium?

I am the Dive Safety Officer. I manage the dive team and ensure everyone is safe while working in the water.

What is an average day like?

I start my day preparing for dives. I organize all the gear and personnel. By mid-morning, I am normally in one of our exhibits cleaning or working on anything the animal care team needs done underwater. In the afternoon, I am working on new policies and moving the dive program forward.

What do you like best about your work & why?

I’m happy to be joining the Virginia Aquarium during a period of growth for the dive program. While auditing our safety procedures, we have the opportunity to expand our support of the animal care team and the Aquarium’s conservation mission as a whole.

What advice would you offer to someone interested in this career?

Be versatile. There are a lot of SCUBA instructors. But there are not a lot of instructors who are also boat mechanics or paramedics. If you are a good instructor who also specializes in something marketable to the industry, you’ll go far.

What is your favorite experience while working at the Aquarium?

I always enjoy a good squid party. Every Sunday the aquarists have to prep squid for the week’s feedings. I do my best to stop by and help DJ the event.

Charlie's favorite animal?

SHARKS!

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

21

HONOR ROLL OF DONORS

Gifts of $100 or more made July 1 – September 30, 2019 Gifts can be made at www.VirginiaAquarium.com/SaveTheOcean The Honor Roll of Donors recognizes gifts and pledges to the Aquarium Fund. The Aquarium Fund provides vital support to help maintain exhibits and care for thousands of animals, provide educational offerings to visitors, offer outreach programs to schools, conduct research and conservation activities and operate our nationally-recognized stranding response program. For more information, please contact the Development Office at 757-385-0260.

$10,000 AND ABOVE

The Oceanfront Inn/Vakos Family

$5,000 - $9,999

BB&T BankCard Services Michelle & Richard Collins Bob & Leslie Fort Craig & Sue Grube Mr. & Mrs. Stephen M. Snyder

$2,500 - $4,999

Allionce Group, LLC Anonymous Sal & Maureen DaBiero Dr. Clarence A. Holland Daniel R. Peterson United Way of South Hampton Roads

$1,000 - $2,499

Atlantic Union Bank/Mr. Andrew C. Hodge Mr. & Mrs. David C. Burton Mr. & Mrs. Robert H. DeFord, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. H. Moncure Geho Family of Chris and Courtney Graves Mr. & Mrs. Bert Henderson IV Esi Waters Langston

Mr. John P. Matson The McNicolas Family Ms. Delceno C. Miles/The Miles Agency Ms. Sherri L. Miles Dr. & Mrs. Thomas O’Hara Otto Design + Marketing Ms. Suzanne Savage Mrs. Audrey Settle Walmart Corporate Giving, Store #3216 The Honorable Frank W. Wagner Drs. Kurt & Samantha Wetzler Ken & Nancy Wilson

$500 – $999

At Home Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign Keith & Kim Curtis Dr. & Mrs. Glenn C. Jones Anne & Chris Rusbuldt

$250 - $499

Mr. & Mrs. Alexander W. Cecil Mr. & Mrs. William Dillon Mr. Michael Evans Thomas E. & Julie B. Fraim, Jr. Kenneth Proud

$100 - $249

Mr. & Mrs. William L. Banks, Jr. Mr. Thomas Burton Ms. Kim Clements Ms. Sharon Doyle Dr. Julius S. Miller Network for Good Ms. Mary Louise O'Brien In honor of Laura Wittkofski Ms. Stephanie Pope Ms. Laura E. Ramsay In memory of Lynda Boardman Ms. Laura L. Ramsay In memory of Lynda Boardman Mr. J. Howard Rodman Mr. Clint Rudy Mr. & Mrs. Lional Teed Mrs. Anastasia N. Weigner Ms. Catheryn Whitesell In memory of Lynda Boardman Mr. Nathanael Wilhelm

M U I R A U Q A A I N VIRGI EVENT

G N I L C E-CY

E C YC L I N G

2PM 1 – M A | 9 T 25 Y R KING LO A R U A P N T A S J C H , VA UM EA INIA BEA AQUARI VIRG T H B LV D , O O B L A GENER

VIRGINI 717

A

F O R D E TA I L S , V I S I T VIRGINIAAQUARIUM.COM

CHANGE OUR ACTIONS

THE CHALLENGE: Youth Conservation Series

Re-use scrap pieces of wrapping paper as festive hats this holiday season!

March 7 | Youth Ocean Conservation Summit March 28 | Career Day Our Youth Conservation Series (YCS) provides multiple opportunities throughout the year for middle and high school-aged students to learn about marine science and conservation.

For more information contact us at (757) 385-0278 or programs@virginiaaquarium.com.

WINTER 2020 | VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY

23

717 GENERAL BOOTH BLVD VIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23451 (757) 385-FISH VirginiaAquarium.com A PUBLICATION OF THE VIRGINIA AQUARIUM & MARINE SCIENCE CENTER

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 December 31, 2019

e s u o H n e p O r e e t n u Vol January 23 | 4-5:30 pm

Department representatives will be available to answer your volunteer questions and you just might meet an animal or two!

More information on p. 12 24

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM QUARTERLY | WINTER 2020