watermarks fall/winter 2012

Conservation 2012 PAGE 10 | Finding the Key to Communication with Dolphins PAGE 20

MAGAZINE OF THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM • FALL/WINTER 2012

We're Having a Baby BoomMeet this Gouldian Finch and our newest additions PAGE 4

National Aquarium Institute EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS

Ms. Jennifer W. Reynolds Chair

Mr. Robert E. Carter

Mr. Marc Bunting

Ms. Jane W.I. Droppa

Mr. Michael Dunmyer

Ms. Ann T. Gallant

Mr. Andrew L. Good

Mr. Randall M. Griffin

Mr. Frank A. Gunther

Mr. Mohannad F. Jishi

Mr. Donald Pettit

Mr. J. Scott Plank

Mr. John C. Racanelli

Mr. K. Lee Riley, Jr.

Mr. Thomas Robinson

Ms. Anna L. Smith

Ms. Tamika Langley Tremaglio

Ms. C. Elizabeth Wagner

W e are approaching the end of another year, and this is the season

when the air turns crisp and our homes fill with family and friends and the warmth of home cooked meals. This is also the time of year when many of us look forward to what we hope to achieve in 2013.

At the National Aquarium, we resolve to further our commitment and focus on our mission: to inspire conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures. Among our plans for 2013 is the opening of Blacktip Reef, a new Indo-Pacific coral reef exhibit in Baltimore. Coral reef habitats around the world are threatened by the increasing influence of human activity that spills into our waterways. Pollution, warming ocean temperatures, and erratic weather patterns are changing the dynamic of our oceans and affecting the

delicate balance of life in these coral reefs, which serve as a “grand cen-tral station” for the oceans, literally teeming with life. With the opening of Blacktip Reef in Baltimore, our goal is to inspire and motivate the public to take personal action to preserve these critical habitats.

Our hope is to inspire not only those who visit our building, but those in the community as well. Our education team works with local school systems and teachers to bring Aquarium experiences directly to the classroom, and our conservation teams invite volunteers from the community to participate in beach cleanups and marsh restoration activities along the mid-Atlantic coastline. As part of the global community, our scientists are collaborating with like-minded marine conservation organizations, working together to perform vital research to understand aquatic environments and advocate for ocean health. Our website, aqua.org, is full of information about the animals in our exhibits as well as activities and actions you can take to participate in their preservation.

As you are thinking about your goals and resolutions for next year, consider making a resolution to help our blue planet. As you will see on page 12, even small actions can make a huge difference—such as giving up your bottled water in favor

of a reusable beverage container, embracing a more vegetable-based diet, or starting a compost bin for kitchen waste. On page 25 you will find a “wish list” from our marine animal rescue and animal care teams for in-kind donations. Of course, one of the most direct ways to help is with a financial donation.Your dollars will help advance our vision for the future of the National Aquarium, which you can read more about on page 25. In 2013, we invite you to be a part of our mission.

For more information on how you can support the National Aquarium and help our blue planet, visit aqua.org.

From the CEO

10John C. Racanelli Chief Executive Officer

4We're Having a Baby BoomMeet the many babies welcomed at the National Aquarium this year.

From the CEO

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Table of Contents

Conservation 2012Highlights from a busy year of conservation activities around the region.

John C. Racanelli Chief Executive Officer

20Finding the Key to Communication with DolphinsExciting studies with the National Aquarium dolphins could lead to a better under-standing of these animals.

COLUMNS

3 Shake Hands (or Fins) with a Dolphin

Watermarks follows a group on a dolphin immersion tour

8 Opening the Oceans to Foster Deeper Understanding

Research Vessel Falkor docks at the National Aquarium

12 Start the New Year Off Right

There are many ways you can resolve to help the planet this year

13 Once in a Blue... Lobster

One in 2 million lobster joins the National Aquarium in DC

16 Wings in the Water: Animals on the Move

How do you move a 400 pound green sea turtle?

19 Living Our Mission in Maryland

Our home state is home to many of our key initiatives

23 RBC Blue Water Project Leadership Grant

Aquarium receives generous grant to support our conserva-tion mission

25 Be a Part of Our Future Participate in our mission

in 2013

25 Holiday Gift Guide Find the perfect aquatic gift

IN EVERY ISSUE

14 Places to Be

24 Online Connections

Kids Club

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MAGAZINE OF THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM

A copy of the National Aquarium’s financial statement is available upon written request. Documents filed in accordance with the Maryland Charitable Organizations Solicitation Act may be obtained from the Maryland Secretary of State.

© 2012 National Aquarium

CFC # 11251 MCC # 4099 CCC # 4099

MANAGING EDITOR KATIE TURNER [email protected]

ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETH WALK

CONTRIBUTORS KATE HENDRICKSON, NABILA CHAMI, SUSAN LINDSEY, LAURA BANKEY, MARIA HARWOOD

DESIGN NATALIE CASTALDO, JESSICA STEINIGER–GIFT GUIDE

PHOTOGRAPHY GEORGE GRALL, KEN STANEK, CHARMAINE DAHLENBURG, KATE HENDRICKSON, MARIA HARWOOD, LAURA CATTELL NOLL, KATHY FULLER

KIDS CLUB ILLUSTRATION ART: JACK DESROCHER GAMES BY: CLAIRE MILLER

BY PRINTING ON RECYCLED PAPER USING VEGETABLE-BASED INKS AND WIND POWER, THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM SAVED THE FOLLOWING RESOURCES:

FULLY GROWN TREES

ENERGY IN MILLIONS OF BTUS

POUNDS OF SOLID WASTE

GALLONS OF WATER

POUNDS OF GREENHOUSE GASES

Impact estimates were made using the Environmental Defense Calculator.

Contact UsOFFICE HOURS

WEEKDAYS, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Annual Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-576-8678Aquadopt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-576-8840Corporate Membership . . . . . . . . . . 410-576-6845Member Advanced Ticket Sales . . . . 410-727-FISHMembership Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-659-4230Program Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-727-FISHSpecial Gifts, Estate Planning . . . . . 410-576-8535

aqua.org/[email protected]

Baltimore, MDNOVEMBER–FEBRUARY HOURS:

MONDAY–THURSDAY 10AM – 4PM; FRIDAY 10AM – 8PM; SATURDAY & SUNDAY 10AM – 5PM

HOLIDAY HOURS

NOVEMBER 22, CLOSED; NOVEMBER 23, 9AM – 8PM; NOVEMBER 24, 9AM – 5PM; DECEMBER 24, 10AM – 2PM; DECEMBER 25, CLOSED; DECEMBER 28, 9AM – 8PM DECEMBER 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 9AM – 5PM

You may tour the Aquarium for 90 minutes after the last entry time. Visit aqua.org for specific entry times of the day(s) you plan to visit.

Main Aquarium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-576-3800Catered Events in Baltimore . . . . . . . .410-576-3869TDD/TTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-625-0720Volunteer Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-576-3886

Washington, DCOPEN EVERY DAY 9 AM – 5 PM; LAST TICKET SOLD AT 4:30 PM

HOLIDAY HOURS

NOVEMBER 21, 9 AM – 3 PM; LAST TICKET SOLD AT 2:30 PM; NOVEMBER 22, CLOSED; DECEMBER 24, 9 AM – 3 PM; LAST TICKET SOLD AT 2:30 PM; DECEMBER 25, CLOSED; JANUARY 21, CLOSED

You may tour the Aquarium for 30 minutes after the last entry time.

Main Aquarium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202-482-2826Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202-482-2825Volunteer Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202-482-0852Birthday Parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202-482-2782Catered Events in DC . . . . . . . . . . . . 202-207-5060

Connect With Us Find out more at aqua.org and follow us online:

The National Aquarium is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire conservation of the world's aquatic treasures.

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ON THE COVERTHIS BABY GOULDIAN FINCH IS ONE OF THE MANY BABIES WELCOMED AT THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM THIS FALL.

READ MORE ABOUT OUR BABY BOOM ON PAGE 4.

100% RECYCLED

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T he tour starts in the Aquar-ium’s Lynn B. Meyerhoff Library above the dolphin

amphitheater. Guests settle into the comfortable marine-themed room, complete with port-hole style windows overlooking the Inner Harbor, and begin talking about why they came that day.

One family—Jeff, Josh, Jeremy, and Jessica, have a family membership, “We visit four to five times per year, and every time we see something different. We came today because we wanted to try something new.”

Meg and her daughter Julia were on the tour as part of a home-school science lesson, and because Julia had saved up her money for a Dolphin Encounter. “I have been saving since about spring, my allowance and money from being a mother’s helper.”

The presentation includes several short video clips, including one showing the birth of Beau, one of

the male dolphins at the National Aquarium. Our guide talks about dolphin anatomy, how they gen-erate their distinctive sounds, what they eat, how they learn, and some of the dangers they face in their environment—such as debris and trash in the water.

After an in-depth learning session, the group heads down to the pools where the dolphins are just as excited as the guests to get started! The National Aquarium's four female dolphins, Chesapeake, Jade, Maya, and Bayley rush over to the side of the pool to meet their new friends and get started with some play (and fish treats!). Working with a dolphin trainer, the guests touch the dolphins and engage them in play activities. “It feels like plastic or rubber,” says one guest, when asked how dolphin skin feels. Kids and adults “dance” with the dolphins, ask them to do flips and twists, and get splashed by some big tail slaps.

Following the encounter, the group had a chance for questions with the dolphin trainers. “How do the dolphins interact with the trainers and each other?" "Do they have a hierarchy in the group?" "Are there ever personality conflicts?”

The trainers explain that dolphins are very intelligent animals, with complex social structures. Like humans, dolphins’ moods and interests can shift from day to day and moment to moment. Over time, the trainers build close relationships with the dolphins that allow them to understand each dolphin’s individual personal-ity and interact with them in the way that best suits their needs and preferences.

Dolphin Encounter is one of six Immersion Tours offered at the National Aquarium. To learn more about Immersion Tours, visit aqua.org/immersiontours.

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Shake Hands (or Fins) with a DolphinOverheard at the Dolphin Encounter Immersion Tour: “top-five bucket list item,” “best birthday present ever,” “that was awesome! (double high five).” On September 16, Watermarks followed 12 guests on a Dolphin Encounter, one of several Immersion Tours offered at the National Aquarium that gives guests a unique, behind-the-scenes and up-close look at our animals and their habitats.

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We're Having a

The staff at the National Aquarium are always thrilled to welcome a new animal. It’s even more exciting when the addition is a baby. The Aquarium’s nurseries have been busy, as babies arrived this year at our exhibits in both Baltimore and Washington, DC.

From furry or feathered to scaly or spiky, our animals are all unique—and so are the stories of their births. Some hatched in nests, one was born upside down in a tree, and one dad can take credit for doing all of the hard work.

The National Aquarium is proud to introduce the newest members of our family and hope you will stop by to say hello to all of them soon.

For animal updates, follow our blog at nationalaquarium.wordpress.com.

Baby Boom


Spiny-Tailed Monitor, Varanus acanthurus Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes

While their spikes may not make them the cuddliest babies, the Aquarium’s two baby spiny-tailed moni-tors are still adorable. The babies both hatched in the Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit backup area. This species has spikes ringing its tail, making it difficult to pull the monitor out from a rocky crevice where it may be hiding.

Though this species can come in different colors and patterns, red and yellow are the two distinct types. The red phase spiny-tailed monitor, which is a brick-red color accented with dark and cream-ringed spots, is the type you can see at the Aquarium.

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Chain Catshark, Scyliorhinus retifer National Marine Sanctuaries and National Parks Gallery

Chain catsharks are known for their distinctive yellow-green eyes and unique black color patterns that resemble a chain. They may be small now, but don’t worry if you cannot make it to see these babies before they grow up—chain catsharks stay small throughout their lives, reaching a maximum size of only about 1 to 2 feet in length.

Chain catsharks have distinctive black mottling on a lighter brown background. They generally stay near the bottom, where they like rough and rocky surfaces and feed on small fish and crustaceans. Chain catsharks are common along the East Coast and can be found from southern New England to Florida as well as in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico.

Linne’s Two-Toed Sloth, Choloepus didactylus Upland Tropical Rain Forest

One evening in August, Rain Forest staff members observed Ivy, our adult female two-toed sloth, carrying a newborn. This is Ivy’s first baby and is an exciting event for us. Staff have witnessed Howie showing great interest in Ivy, and speculate that he might be the father. Howie was born at the Aquarium in 2008.

Staff are keeping a close eye on mother and infant, and have seen the baby actively nursing (always a concern with a newborn mammal and a first-time mother). Ivy can be identified by a streak of yellow in her fur, and her baby is the third two-toed sloth born at the National Aquarium.

Mouth Almighty, Glossamia aprion Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes

It’s not only moms doing the work for the Aquarium’s baby boom—mouth almighty dads are charged with caring for eggs and tending to new hatchlings. The newest mouth almighty babies hatched in the Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit after incubating for about two weeks in their father’s mouth. After they hatched, the developing fry continued to spend time in the safety of dad’s mouth for about another week. To help keep the babies safe, the male mouth almighty does not eat while he is protecting them.

We're Having a BABY BOOM CONTINUED

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American Alligator, Alligator mississippiensis National Marine Sanctuaries and National Parks Gallery

Four baby American alligators are calling the National Aquarium home after coming from New Orleans. The babies weighed about 3.5 pounds and were 30-35 inches long upon arrival.

Be sure to visit the American alligators before they reach their full size of 1,000 pounds and up to 15 feet in length. The Aquarium will only house the alligators until they reach about 5 feet in length. The alligators will eventually be taken back to their home, and in 2014 four new baby alligators will make the trip to Washington.

These alligators are one of only two species that are raised at the Aquarium and then returned to their homes.

Gouldian Finch, Erythrura gouldiae Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes

When two gouldian finches fell from their nests, the Aquarium’s aviculture staff came to the rescue and provided excellent care for these two babies from our Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit. These babies’ mouths are uniquely designed to help their parents feed them, containing four jewel-like structures along the edge called “reflection pearls.” The pearls reflect light to help the parent finch find the baby’s mouth. The black spots and bright colors in the baby’s mouth help to guide the parent in placing food in the correct location, similar to how runway lights guide a landing plane.

Turquoise Tanager, Tangara mexicana Upland Tropical Rain Forest

The Upland Tropical Rain Forest’s turquoise tanager family grew from three to five this year, with the arrival of two chicks. Aquarium staff observed the turquoise tanagers building a nest in one of the exhibit’s Cecropia trees. Because the nest was high up in the tree, no one was able to see how many eggs the female was incubating. After approximately 12 days, staff spotted two chicks in the nest. It’s a family affair for the turquoise tanagers—all adults within the group can be seen assisting in the feedings of the nestlings.

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Opening the Oceans to Foster Deeper Understanding

W hen the Falkor begins full research cruises in 2013, she will be one of

the premier ocean research vessels in the world. And what’s particularly amazing is that this ship, which costs upwards of $55,000 a day to run, is free for scientists to use for research.

“The Schmidt Ocean Institute is designed and set up by our founders’ vision to put infrastructure into the global oceanographic research community,” says Nathan Cunning-ham, marine technician. “The ship is free to use to the scientific com-munity. It’s just a matter of writing a proposal.”

Dr. Victor Zykov, director of sci-ence operations, handles the incom-ing proposals, and is in charge of long-term research planning and coordinating with the researchers.

Says Zykov, “We’re trying to moti-vate the scientists to think in terms

of how they can most effectively utilize the various technologies provided by our organization on board the research vessel. They can switch from the conventional thinking of ‘how many people I need in a lab’ and ‘how much money I need to fund those people,’ to ‘what would be the best technology for me’ to use during that cruise.”

The uniqueness of this research vessel doesn’t end there—all the data collected on the research cruises will be made available to the public. The Schmidt Ocean

Institute’s mission is to catalyze open sharing of information about the oceans, and foster deeper under-standing of our environment.

The hope is that by making the vessel and the information gathered free, open, and accessible to all, we will learn more about the ocean—and faster.

“We are trying to facilitate research... utilizing all the state-of-the-art oceanographic research technologies,” explains Zykov; “and on the other hand, we’re also trying to facilitate

In August, the National Aquarium welcomed a very special guest to our pier: the Research Vessel Falkor. Owned and operated by the Schmidt Ocean Institute, the R/V Falkor stopped by Baltimore at the end of its maiden transatlantic voyage.

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the sharing of the data that has been acquired as promptly as possible, so that we can accelerate the rate at which the science is done.”

In her previous life, the Falkor was a German fishery protection ves-sel. Purchased from the German government in 2009, she underwent massive renovations, including the addition of some of the most tech-nologically advanced ocean research computers and onboard systems—or, as navigator Paul Shepherd puts it, she’s now “spanking high-tech.”

“She’s a great ship to drive—in-credibly maneuverable, incredibly responsive,” says Shepherd. And everything about her allows for a level of flexibility typically unheard of on a research vessel.

The Falkor was launched this March, and is currently in her “shakedown” phase. During shakedown, all

the systems and oceanographic instruments on board the ship are tested and calibrated.

“We’re still testing out the ship, and we’re trying to get it as good as possible,” explains Cunningham. Even this trial phase is yielding exciting scientific discoveries, such as the unearthing of the S.S. Terra Nova, a polar exploration ship that disappeared off the coast of Green-land in 1943.

“We were testing our shallow-water system, but we did it in the place we thought the Terra Nova was sunk,”

says Cunningham. “So the Terra Nova was never the mission, as it were; it was going to be a nice extra if we found it. And we found it. Not bad for the maiden voyage!”

As the Falkor sails around the world, everyone who has ever looked out at the fathomless sea and wondered what mysteries it holds, can look forward to what the Falkor will reveal.

“Considering what we’re doing on our shakedown cruise, imagine what we can do when we stop shaking and really get started!” exclaims Shepherd.

To learn how the National Aquarium uses research like that gained on the Falkor, visit aqua.org/research. To learn more about the Schmidt Ocean Institute, visit schmidtocean.org.

“Considering what we’re doing on our shakedown cruise, imagine what we can do when we stop shaking and really get started!”

S tudents from elementary school through college are involved in a wide variety

of programs including Wetland Nursery and Terrapins in the Class- room. Community volunteers assist in cleaning up debris and planting native grasses and trees at several wetland restoration areas.

The Wetland Nursery program involves students potting and caring for wetland plants and trees in wet frame ponds, throughout the school year. A few schools have an extended wet frame pond system, linking their ponds to a tank with striped bass. At the end of the school year, the students travel to sites around the Ches-apeake Bay watershed to plant the

grasses and trees and release the fish into tributaries. Teachers utilize the plants and fish as teaching tools in lessons as they track their growth and study the model as an example of actual wetland processes.

Our Terrapins in the Classroom program gives hatchling diamond-back terrapins a head start on life in the wild by having students raise them in the classroom. Caring for the terrapins becomes an important part of student life, as one student reflected, “Thank you very much for allowing us to be a major influ-ence in Leo’s life. We have prepared him for the new journey he will embark on.” Teachers and students track the growth of their terrapin and study the brackish wetland

habitats where they are naturally found, linking the impact climate change is having on these areas and the future of these reptiles.

The National Aquarium conserva-tion department held restoration planting opportunities from as far south as Virginia Beach all the way to Baltimore City.

Along the Patapsco River at Ma-sonville Cove, approximately 100 volunteers came out to plant a half acre with 21,000 native wetland grasses, creating a fringe wetland. This increased the amount of wilderness habitat in the surround-ing area, which is largely urban and industrial. At the nearby Fort McHenry wetland, over 200 species

CONSERVATION2012 was a busy year for the conservation department at the National Aquarium! Community involvement is the cornerstone of our efforts; without the large volunteer force that comes out to our events, we would not be able to accomplish such large-scale restoration projects within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

2012


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LEFT: 1. A shark tagging participant helps Captain Sampson take measurements of a shark. 2. Students take part in Wetland Nursery activities, planting native trees and wetland grasses.

TOP: Elementary students in upstate New York hand wetland plants to high school students who then plant them in a freshwater pond on their school grounds as a part of the Wetland Nursery program.

RIGHT: Aquarium on Wheels student participates in osprey banding.

of birds have been counted over the years and they will now benefit from the added habitat in the area. We have been picking up marine debris for over 10 years at the Fort McHenry wetland, which is one of our most popular volunteer events.

Sand dunes were restored along the Virginia coastline, as volunteers planted two species of dune grasses along a stretch of coastline at a naval base. During two separate plantings this year, 55,000 grasses were spread over an acre and a half of dunes. Dune fencing was installed to protect the new grasses and give them time to establish a healthy root system, protecting the dunes from eroding or breaching during hurricanes or other strong storms.

Another restoration planting occurred on a naval base just outside Washington, DC in Charles County, MD. Almost 46,000 wet-land plants and 2,000 trees were planted during separate events along the Potomac River. Since 2008, over 87,000 wetland grasses and trees have been planted at this location!

As you can see, volunteers help out in a big way! Want to be a part of the action? Email [email protected] or check out the website aqua.org/care.

HIGHLIGHTS

760 community volunteers

10 acres of wildlife habitat restored

122,597 native grasses and trees planted

21,000 pieces of debris collected and removed

1,642 school children participated in wetland restoration

2012

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The following is a list of the 10 most common New Year’s resolutions. We’ve added tips on how to go about each resolution so that it benefits not only you, but the world we live in too!

Start the New Year Off Right

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1. Eat Healthier

Eat food that has been certified organic, or better yet, grow your own! Many of the foods in the grocery store have been overprocessed or treated with chemicals. To make sure you and our planet remain healthy, choose foods that are simple. Rule of thumb: the best foods have only one ingredient!

2. Lose Weight

How many pounds of garbage do you send to the landfill each week? Could you cut that in half by the end of the year? Simple steps to meet this goal include: recycling (check out earth911.com for tips on recycling almost anything); composting; buying less stuff (see also number 5); and purchasing items with minimum packaging (who likes those impossible-to-open plastic clamshell packages anyway?).

3. Quit Smoking (Drive Less)

According to the EPA, the exhaust from an average passenger car adds up to 10,000 pounds of chemicals each year to our atmosphere. Start with a pledge to go car-less one day a week. Use mass transit, ride your bike, carpool, or telecommute. If you need to use a car, purchase one with high fuel efficiency, make sure it is well-maintained, and properly inflate its tires.

4. Learn Something New

Did you know that an octopus has three hearts? Or that the fur of a sloth grows in the opposite direction than most mammals, enabling rain to run off this heels-over-head animal? Every time you visit the National Aquarium, or even pay a virtual visit to aqua.org, you will see and learn something new!

5. Get Out of Debt (Save Money)

Many of the steps you take to help the environment can also save you money. Stop purchasing disposable items; in the end, a one-time purchase of a reusable option will save you lots of money.

6. Spend More Time with Friends & Family

Did you know the National Aquarium offers not only a Family membership, but also a Couple and a Grandparent membership? Plus, you can add on a guest option to any membership for just $50, and bring a different friend with you every time you visit! Check out the options at aqua.org/contribute.

7. Enjoy Life More (Less Stress)

Sometimes we worry so much about saving the aquatic world that we forget to enjoy it. Take time this year to reconnect with nature and take advantage of the beauty and bounty your nearby national park or wildlife refuge has to offer. Walk by the water, listen to a birdsong, savor some locally caught sustainable seafood, and remember why we work to preserve these natural treasures for future generations.

8. Volunteer

You always feel better about yourself when you are helping others! Pledge to volunteer at least four times next year and really make a difference. The National Aquarium offers plenty of volunteer opportunities, both at the Aquarium and at conservation events throughout the year. Get more info at aqua.org/contribute.

9. Quit Drinking

Bottled water, that is. This one is a no-brainer! Bot-tled water is a waste of your money and our earth’s resources. Reusable water bottles can be purchased just about anywhere—we may even give you one at one of our conservation events!

10. Get Organized

Organize your own neighborhood trash cleanup, storm drain stenciling event, or community garden. If you want to start smaller, simply support your local watershed organization in its efforts to create cleaner and healthier communities.


I t seemed likely Toby the lobster was headed for the dinner table when he was

caught by a fishing boat, but the odds were in his favor—1-in-2 million odds that made his blue hue a very special find.

Toby, named by his finder, was discovered in June off the coast of Ocean City, MD, by John Gourley on his boat the Pot Luck. Gourley who had the good fortune of find-ing another blue lobster about a decade ago, decided to donate this one to the Aquarium.

“We were looking for a lobster for our exhibits at the time and having one that’s a unique animal was of interest to us. The timing was good,” says Washington, DC, Curator Jay Bradley. “I had never seen a living blue lobster before, so it was a bonus for me to get to see it in person.”

Toby’s peculiar blue coloring is said to be a 1-in-2 million exception to the reddish-brown shade of most

lobsters. This unique color is a genetic variation that is caused by the lobster producing an excessive amount of a particular protein that interacts with the lobster’s pigment.

Bradley explains, the lobster’s color is dependent on where pigment is found in its different layers. Lob-sters have one skin layer and two shell layers, each contain different pigmentations. On a normal lob-ster, color from all three layers can be seen, giving it a reddish-brown color. In uniquely colored lobsters, the pigment is only in one layer. Toby’s pigment is only in his lower layer, which shows blue.

The bright red color lobsters are famous for occurs when they are boiled, Bradley says. When this happens, the pigment denaturizes and, no matter the starting color, the lobster turns red.

Toby’s celebrity status led to anoth-er rare addition to the Aquarium. Larry the orange lobster, whose coloring is even rarer, about 1-in-

30 million, will be on display in DC this fall.

“Larry came from a grocery store in Winchester, VA,” Bradley says. “The folks at the store had seen the publicity that Toby was getting and were interested in donating Larry to us as well.”

Toby and Larry will make the newly renovated Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuaries exhibit home. “We’ve had folks asking about Toby and wanting to see him,” Bradley says. “Unfortunately, he is hiding in the rocks and can be difficult to see. Lobsters tend to be secretive. We’re waiting to see what happens when Larry arrives, perhaps they’ll be out in the open more.”

To learn more about the animals in Washington, DC, visit aqua.org/explore/dc.

It’s not often an animal someone finds in the wild becomes the star of an exhibit, but this summer a captivating crustacean made headlines when he was brought to the National Aquarium, Washington, DC.

Once in a Blue...Lobster

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DECEMBER

7-8 Dollar Days 10 AM – 4 PM

BALT, MD Dollar days are a National Aquarium tradition! For two days every December, admission to the Aquarium is just ONE DOLLAR! Go to aqua.org/whatsnew for more information.

7 World Holiday Traditions 5 PM – 9 PM

BALT, MD FREE ! * The Aquarium's Cultural Series, presented by Macy’s, celebrates World Holiday Traditions with special programming to highlight art, music, dance and literature.

7 Tots and Tales 10 AM

WASH, DC FREE ! * Bring your little one to the National Aquarium, DC for storytime and fun activities designed especially for toddlers!

8 Members Only Morning OPENS AT 9 AM

BALT, MD MEMBERS ! Get a head start on the weekend crowds and catch a showing of our 4D film. The Harbor Market Kitchen will be open early for breakfast with your member discount. Limited capacity; Call 410-727-3474 to reserve. FREE! for members.

15–16 Holiday Celebration 10 AM – 2 PM

BALT, MD FREE ! * An exciting weekend to meet Diego from Nickelodeon Jr.’s—Go Diego Go! Watch Polar Express in our 4D movie theater and even meet the conductor! More special activities included with admission!

21 Tots and Tales 10 AM


25 Christmas THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM IS CLOSED

JANUARY

4 Asian Pacific Heritage Celebration 5 PM – 9 PM

BALT, MD FREE ! * The Aquarium's Cultural Series, presented by Macy’s, celebrates Asian Pacific Heritage with special programming to highlight art, music, dance and literature.

4 Tots and Tales 10:30 AM




21 Inauguration Day THE AQUARIUM IN DC IS CLOSED

26 Australia Day 10 AM – 2:30 PM

BALT, MD FREE ! * Join us as we celebrate Australia Day. Immerse yourself in our Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit. Try your hand at creating Aboriginal art on our rock walls, get close to our critters during our animal encounters—there’s lots to do and see!

29 Fresh Thoughts 6:30 – 9 PM

BALT, MD National Aquarium's Fresh Thoughts dining series not only offers a delicious dinner, it's also a way to increase your understanding of sustainable seafood practices and to make in-formed choices. Guests enjoy a cocktail reception, and a three-course fine-dining experience. Visit aqua.org/freshthoughts for more information

PLACES TO BEVISIT AQUA.ORG/WHATSNEW TO VIEW UP-TO-THE-MINUTE EVENT INFORMATION.

JANUARY

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WASH, DC

WASH, DCBALT, MD

5 – 8 PMAdmission tickets are $12 for entry at 5 pm or later on Fridays.

Ticket availability is limited; advance purchase is recommended. Blackout dates apply.

BALT, MD


FEBRUARY



1 Black History Month Celebration 5 PM – 9 PM

BALT, MD FREE ! * The Aquarium's Cultural Series, presented by Macy’s, celebrates Black History Month with special programming to highlight art, music, dance and literature.

2 Members Only Evening OPENS AT 6 PM

BALT, MD MEMBERS ! Members have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing and crowd- free visit and to see our 4-D show for FREE. Space is limited, so reservations are required. Call 410-727-3474.



MARCH

1 Women’s History Month Celebration 5 PM – 9 PM

BALT, MD FREE ! * The Aquarium's Cultural Series, presented by Macy’s, celebrates Women's History Month with special programming to highlight art, music, dance and literature.



TBD Eastern Neck Tree Planting

VOLUNTEER ! Join the National Aquarium and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to plant native hardwood trees at Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge. Certain restrictions apply.Visit aqua.org/care to learn more about this project and to register.

9 Deaf Awareness Day 10 AM – 3:30 PM

BALT, MD Sign language interpreters narrate our public presentations. Deaf advocacy group representatives will be available to meet with visitors and discuss their community activities. Contact Jenny Hamilton at [email protected] or 410-659-4291 for more information. TTY 410-727-3022



19 Fresh Thoughts 6:30 – 9 PM

BALT, MD National Aquarium's Fresh Thoughts dining series not only offers a delicious dinner, it's also a way to increase your understanding of sustainable seafood practices and to make in-formed choices. Guests enjoy a cocktail reception, and a three-course fine-dining experience. Visit aqua.org/freshthoughts for more information.

DID YOU KNOW

NORTHERN SEA NETTLE VENOM IS RUMORED TO HAVE BEEN USED AS A NINJA TOXIN IN ANCIENT JAPAN?

Connect with our online community and learn something new every day! Enjoy daily updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes moments with our animals. You’ll not only be the first to know about exciting events, programs and conserva-tion initiatives, but you’ll also be the first to know about animal additions and changes—often as they are happening!

VISIT AQUA.ORG/WHATSNEW TO VIEW UP-TO-THE-MINUTE EVENT INFORMATION.

The Polar Express 4D Experience

BALT, MD You are invited on an extraordinary adventure to the North Pole this holiday season on The Polar Express with the SimEx-Iwerks 4D Version of the Holiday Classic!

THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and

elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros.

Entertainment Inc. (s12)


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If you have pets, you know how challenging it can be to find a temporary home for your beloved friends while you go on vacation. Do you leave them with a neighbor, hire a pet sitter, board them at a kennel, or perhaps a posh pet hotel? What if your vacation was expected to last until next summer, and your pets included a 400-pound green sea turtle?

T his was the question our animal care staff was ask-ing themselves when faced

with the challenge of relocating the many animals that inhabited our Wings in the Water exhibit. The exhibit is in the process of being renovated to feature a new exhibit, Blacktip Reef, in the summer of 2013.

Wings in the Water contained several species of rays, including cownose and whiptail rays, as well as large tarpon, hogfish, beloved zebra sharks Zeke and Zoe, and our famous 400-pound green sea turtle, Calypso. This exhibit, a central fea-ture of the National Aquarium for more than 30 years, was due for an upgrade. Over time, the salt water had started to erode the cement and inner structure of the tank, and we knew it was time to make these repairs as well as overhaul the ex-hibit into something new and excit-ing that will carry us into the next

30 years. Blacktip Reef, a coral-filled exhibit replicating an Indo-Pacific ocean habitat, will feature 15 excit-ing species including blacktip reef sharks, reticulated whiptail rays, and ornate wobbegong sharks. Guests will be able to experience this lively reef from many vantage points, in-cluding a new floor-to-ceiling pop-out viewing window that allows you to virtually step inside the exhibit. When it opens in summer 2013, Calypso, Zeke, and Zoe will make Blacktip Reef their new home. But until then, the Aquarium needed to figure out a temporary home for them, and the several other animals that inhabited Wings in the Water.

Some of the animals were moved to other exhibits within the Aquar-ium. The tarpon and one of the larger whiptail rays moved to the Shark Alley exhibit. This process is not as easy as it may sound. The fish have to be slowly acclimated

Wings in the Water: Animals on the Move


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to their new habitat, introduced to animals in the new exhibit, and monitored closely after the move to be sure they are thriving in their new home.

Most of the rays in Wings in the Wa-ter were moved to other aquariums. The National Aquarium was happy to work with Georgia Aquarium and Ripley’s Aquarium to transport our rays to their facilities. In late August, the team from Georgia came to the Aquarium with a special truck outfitted for animal transport. Over four days, the teams worked together to collect animals in the water, place them in safe and secure containers, and drive them to Atlanta, where they will acclimate into new environments and put on exhibit for a new audi-ence at the Georgia Aquarium.

Once the majority of the rays were relocated, the team then focused on moving Zeke, Zoe, and Calypso.

These animals were taken to one of our behind-the-scenes animal care facilities, where they will reside until their big move into Blacktip Reef.

Moving a 400-pound green sea turtle is no small task, and our dive team spent several days in the water

with Calypso, introducing her to a special sling that had been designed to lift her out of the water. Using positive reinforcement, they trained Calypso to climb into the sling herself, which would make her

more comfortable on the day of the move.

After the Aquarium closed on Labor Day, our teams got to work on moving Calypso. Calypso has been living at the Aquarium for the past 10 years, after she was rescued off the Atlantic coast, severely cold-stunned and with an infected front flipper. To save her life, her flipper had to be amputated, and a decision was made not to release Calypso back into the wild for fear that she would not survive with a missing limb. She has made Wings in the Water her home ever since, and is loved by Aquarium guests and staff alike. It was very impor-tant to everyone that Calypso be moved safely and comfortably.

Divers helped ease her onto the sling, and she was slowly lifted out of the water and placed atop a huge truck tire to support her frame and keep her flippers from touching the ground as she was transported down the hallway on a large dolly. From there, Calypso was placed into her new temporary tank in a backup animal care area, where she will be monitored closely and will interact daily with our staff. Calypso surely misses her old home, but we are confident that she will be just as happy and healthy in Blacktip Reef !

For ongoing updates on the progress of Blacktip Reef, and a behind-the-scenes look at the construction, new animals, and status of the project, visit aqua.org/blacktipreef.

When it opens in summer 2013, Calypso, Zeke, and Zoe will make Blacktip Reef their new home.

Renderings of Blacktip Reef show the mesmerizing step-out window where guests will be able to immerse them-selves into the underwater viewing area. Surface photos show the stun-ning colors of the reef that will fill the National Aquarium's central space.


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ADs

Let our experienced event professionals help you plan your holiday festivities. Your guests will enjoy a unique event at either of

our locations in Baltimore and Washington DC.

V I S I T A Q U A . O R G / P L A N - A N - E V E N T O R C A L L 4 1 0 - 5 7 6 - 3 8 6 9 T O L E A R N M O R E .

MembershipsAquadoptsImmersion ToursGift TicketsOnline Shopping!

Visit aqua.org/gifts or call 410-727-FISH to purchase your gifts or to learn more about the benefits of membership.

Allow 2–4 weeks for gift delivery

UNIQUE GIFTS

THAT KEEP ON GIVING!


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F rom our Chesapeake Bay wetland restoration initiatives, to educational

opportunities for Maryland students such as the Henry Hall program, and special admission offers for Maryland residents, our activities in our home state are an integral part of our global mission.

In Baltimore City, we host two cleanups a year at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. Since 1999, the National Aquarium and more than 4,000 volunteers have planted 55,000 native wetland grasses and removed more than 500,000 pieces of debris at Fort McHenry.

Since 1991, the National Aquarium’s Marine Animal Rescue Program (MARP) has been responsible for responding to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles, primarily along the nearly 7,000 miles of Maryland coast. MARP has successfully released nearly 100 rehabilitated animals, many released from the beach at Ocean City, MD.

We want to be sure that all Mary- landers have an opportunity to experience the National Aquarium, Baltimore. As a nonprofit organization, our admissions fees directly support our conservation and research initiatives. As a special show of appreciation for local visitors, Maryland Mornings gives Maryland residents showing proof-of-state residency a special discount off the general admission price when they enter the Aquarium before noon, Sundays–Fridays, September–February.

Additionally, Maryland students and their teachers, Pre-K through 12th grade, are admitted free, as a group, between September and February each year. By engaging with young people through our education programs, we are helping to foster environmental sensitivity and sensibility in future generations. In addition to field trips, the National Aquarium offers a wide variety of educational programs for Maryland students, including home school programs, internships, and

excursions. Additionally, programs such as Terrapins in the Classroom and Teacher Workshops offer opportunities for Maryland teachers to enhance their curriculum and expand their knowledge about environmental science.

A highlight of any visit to the National Aquarium, Baltimore is our Maryland Mountains to the Sea exhibit, which depicts a water cycle moving from an Allegheny stream through a tidal marsh and coastal beach and out to the continental shelf. Diamondback terrapins and striped bass are just some of the animals that show the diversity of Maryland's aquatic life.

With our special programs for Maryland visitors, and the activities that we are engaged with around the state, we hope to preserve and protect these Maryland habitats for many generations to come.

To learn more about National Aquarium activities in Maryland, visit aqua.org/maryland.

Living Our Mission in MarylandWe have all heard the phrase think globally, act locally. At the National Aquarium, our mission is to inspire conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures, and with our special focus on Maryland, we are doing just that.

BALT, MD

ADs


Finding theKEYto Communication with


A Dr. Doolittle-style con-versation may be out of the realm of possibility,

but ways of communicating with animals are continually emerging thanks to scientific research in this fascinating field.

Many have heard of some of the most famous studies on animal- human communication, such as Koko the gorilla learning sign lan-guage, and Dr. Irene Pepperberg’s language work with Alex the parrot.

And then there’s the smart and playful Atlantic bottlenose dolphin. We know a dolphin can learn to un-derstand what we’re asking it to do, but if a dolphin could communicate with us and ask us to do something, what would it ask for? We may be a step closer to finding out.

Dr. Diana Reiss, a cognitive psy-chologist, research scientist, and professor of psychology at Hunter College in New York, has con-ducted pioneering research on ani-mal cognition with several species,

including the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins at the National Aquarium.

In one of her landmark studies, she gave dolphins an underwater keyboard with different symbols on each key. The dolphins quickly learned that each symbol meant a different toy, and that by pressing

the key with the symbol for “ball,” they would receive a ball.

“People hadn’t really thought about giving dolphins choice and control,” says Reiss. “And when we did this study, it was an approach at trying to come up with what we call a communication board, or a communication system for dolphins, so that they could get choice and control, and they could ask for different things. It’s almost like a giant vending machine.”

Another one of her groundbreak-ing studies showed that dolphins, like humans, can recognize them-selves in the mirror. And once they figured that out, the dolphins would use the mirror to watch themselves doing things.

Now Dr. Reiss, along with doctoral candidate Rachel Morrison, who collaborated with her on the mirror self-recognition study, is conduct-ing a new study with the National Aquarium’s dolphins that combines key elements of the previous

research projects. The study will determine if dolphins want to use a mirror by giving them the means to ask for it using the underwater keyboard.

“I wanted to find some way to determine their motivation to interact with the mirror. Is this

For pet owners, this will seem familiar: Your dog looks up at you with those big eyes and wagging tail and lets out a whine, and you say aloud, "What do you want?".

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“I wanted to find some way to determine their motivation to interact with the mirror. Is this something they actually want to do? Are they motivated to do this?”


something they actually want to do? Are they motivated to do this?” explains Morrison. “And after brainstorming with Diana, we thought the keyboard idea is the best way; it gives them choice and control, and we can figure out if they really are going to choose the mirror and interact with it in a self-directed way.”

Each session will consist of a series of 5-minute intervals in which the underwater keyboard will display five different symbols. When Beau or Foster hits a key with his rostrum, Morrison will give him the item he asked for—a ball, a “sinker” toy, a kickboard, a Frisbee, or the mirror, which will be held up at a window.

“We’re pretty much going to leave it up to the dolphins, how they interact with the keyboard,” says Morrison. “They can decide how often they want to hit keys, when they want to hit keys…I’m just there to dispense toys.”

After five minutes, the symbols will rearrange and appear on different keys. The keyboard is connected to a computer that records and sum-marizes the data, and an observer will record which dolphin asked for which item.

“We had never offered them toys before, when we did the mirror

study,” continues Morrison. “Are they going to figure out if they select toys first and have toys in the pool and then select the mirror, now they can take toys and interact with them in front of the mirror?”

Sue Hunter, the National Aquarium’s director of marine mammals, is working closely with the two researchers on this collaborative effort to learn more about how dolphins think.

“I think it’s really important for the [other dolphin] trainers and myself to be involved with learning more about the animals every day,” says Hunter. “We know practical things, how to work with them, and how to interact with them. But there is always more to learn.”

Adds Reiss, “There’s a real richness to working in this kind of collabo-ration, because we all bring differ-ent things to the table. But I think the one thing that we all agree on, is that these are highly social animals and we really want to find other windows into their minds.”

“As we learn more about their interests and capabilities, we feed that back through our enrichment approaches,” sums up Reiss. “So we’ve learned that they will use mirrors, and they can recognize themselves; we’ve tested prefer-ences for certain toys, as well; and

now we’re giving them a means of asking for those things, of getting those things, on dolphin time.”

The researchers are optimistic that this will serve as pilot work for the next generation of keyboard. They are hoping to raise funds for a large interactive touchscreen. Sort of like an iPad for dolphins. “We’ll call it a dPad!” Reiss laughs.

Essentially, the better we under-stand animals and how they think, the better we can care for them. This helps us educate others on the importance of animal welfare, by inspiring protection of their habitats and working to end dolphin drive fisheries in Japan, a cause close to Dr. Reiss’s heart.

“A lot of this boils down to public science education,” concludes Reiss. “Our job is making people aware of our science, of what we’re learning, with the hopes that that would make them feel more empathy toward the animals and connect with them better.”

Hear an interview with Dr. Diana Reiss from WYPR, at aqua.org/ablueview.

Maya leaps out of the water to catch a ball during a play session. Soon, she may be able to tell us which toys she prefers.


N ational Aquarium, Bal-timore received a Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)

Blue Water Project Leadership Grant to fund its Chesapeake Bay Initiative (CBI), a nationally recog-nized program that fosters partner-ships with local communities to protect and restore habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

“The majority of our visitors live in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, and support from the Blue Water

Project enhances our ability to educate and involve our communities in restoring and protecting the Bay, which is the largest and one of the most diverse estuaries in the U.S.,” said Bob Ramin, National Aquarium, chief develop-ment officer. “Wetlands are an important element of all watershed ecosystems, as they provide critical habitat for wildlife, protect coasts from storms and flooding, and act as natural sponges that filter pollut-ants and improve water quality.”

Grant funding will be focused in three areas—urban restoration and stewardship programs to improve water quality in tributaries to the

Patapsco River and Chesapeake Bay; forest restoration and student education projects at Nassawango Creek Nature Preserve; and the Terrapins in the Classroom project, which takes place in 32 Maryland schools and at an Aquarium resto-ration site on Poplar Island.

"RBC and the National Aquarium share a commitment to protecting local watersheds," said John Taft, CEO, RBC Wealth Management-U.S. "We are happy to continue our partnership with the Aquarium and fund the important work of the Chesapeake Bay Initiative."

RBC Awards Blue Water Project Leadership GrantThe $130,000 grant is the largest grant ever received from a corporation that is specifically designated to support the Aquarium’s conservation efforts.

When you adopt an animal, your tax-deductible donation helps to feed our family of over 16,000 creatures while giving your recipient memorable keepsakes including:

›› Personalized Aquadopt certificate

›› Glossy photo of your adopted animal

›› Cuddly plush version of your animal

›› Fascinating fun facts

Visit aqua.org/aquadopt

AQUADOPTSTHE PERFECT GIFT FOR ANY ANIMAL LOVER!


From YouTube to Film Festival

We’re proud to announce that the National Aquarium was once again represented at the Blue Ocean Film Festival, held in September in Monterey Bay, CA.

Wounded Warriors, which came in 4th place in the festival’s “Shorts” category, documents nine wounded soldiers from Walter Reed Army Medical Center, who dive in the Aquarium as part of their rehabilitation programs.

The Blue Ocean Film Festival is held every other year to honor the best in ocean filmmaking. It’s part film festival, part conservation summit, attended by leading ocean filmmakers, photographers, scientists, explorers, entertainment executives, and the general public—the largest event of its kind.

Among many others, this year’s festival featured guest speakers Dr. Sylvia Earle, the Cousteau family, Maryanne Culpepper (president of National Geographic TV), and James Cameron, who accepted a lifetime achievement award for his contributions to underwater filmmaking. It’s an honor for the National Aquarium’s audio visual department to participate in such a presti-gious event alongside these big names in the business!

Watch our short film finalist on the National Aquarium’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/nataquarium.

All About Water, on the Air

The National Aquarium’s surfer CEO has hit the airwaves! “A Blue View” is a weekly perspective on the life aquatic, hosted by John Racanelli on 88.1 WYPR, Maryland’s NPR news station.

Tune in every Tuesday at 5:45 pm as John brings to the surface important issues and fascinating discoveries making waves in the world today. Topics include invasive species, why sharks need our help, and how to predict the chance you’ll get stung by a jellyfish on a trip to the beach.

You can listen to all of the 4-minute segments and learn more about each of the topics at aqua.org/ablueview.

Online ConnectionsA

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Share Your Favorite Moments on Social Media

Local filmmaker Evan Guilfoyle snapped this playful shot of his son Ronan during a family visit to the Aquarium this summer. Instagram is just one of many social media platforms that allow us to engage with our visitors! Share your photos with us and you could be featured in next issue’s fan spotlight!

Stay connected with us.


A t this special time of year, we are grateful for so many things—for our

talented staff, for our dedicated volunteers, and most of all, for the generosity of our loyal supporters. Simply put, your personal commit-ment to the National Aquarium makes it possible for us to inspire conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures every day.

Our newest innovative project is Blacktip Reef. Opening next sum-mer in Baltimore and featuring an Indo-Pacific coral reef, this exhibit is the most significant underwater conservation initiative the National Aquarium has launched in the past decade. The dynamic display will focus on a vital and highly threat-ened ecosystem: our coral reefs.

More than 1.5 million annual visi-tors will learn about the urgency of compelling ocean issues such as overfishing, marine debris, and degradation of coral reefs around the world. We continue to invest in new technology to support this cutting-edge exhibit, such as highly advanced life support and crystal clear water systems.

Outside our walls, we are making great strides in our essential con-servation efforts. Restoring critical habitats in the Chesapeake Bay and along the Atlantic coastline is the cornerstone of our education program and our engagement with the community. And our exciting new outreach campaign goal is to enlist 100 million people around the globe to take personal and

collective action on behalf of our Earth’s precious aquatic resources.

During this season of giving, please consider a tax-deductible gift to the National Aquarium. You may also consider donating one of the items listed below. Your support will enable us to achieve these crucial projects, and much more, on behalf of the aquatic world for generations to come.

Again, thank you. We wish you and your family a very happy holiday season.

To learn more about how your dollars are used, and to donate, please visit aqua.org/contribute.

Be a Part of Our FutureThank you for investing in us during 2012. Through membership, volunteering, and donations, your support is a key component in our mission to inspire conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures and is the foundation of the National Aquarium’s future.

Animal Programs Staff

• Journal subscriptions for Applied Animal

Behaviour Science and Animal Behaviour

• Gift cards for places such as Home Depot,

Lowes, WalMart, and Target

• 9 volt batteries

• Wooden toys specifically designed for birds

Youth Programs Staff

• 2 Garmin GPS units (for Aquarium on

Wheels and Henry Hall)

• Sewing lessons

• 4-man tents

Marine Mammal Staff

• Interior/space designer to assist in maximizing

space available for dolphin trainer staff

Conservation Staff

• Tarp for utility trailer

• Laptop

• Projector

To make a tax-deductible donation,

contact Meredith Watson at

410-576-3865 or [email protected].

Wishes For Our Fishes

As a nonprofit organization, our needs are varied and never-ending!

Please visit aqua.org/wishlists year round for up-to-date needs.

GIFT GUIDE

Holiday

A fun-filled day at the National Aquarium with gift tickets.

Surprise someone with an Aquarium membership, the gift that keeps on giving all year.

Know an animal lover? Adopt an Aquarium animal in his or her name with Aquadopts.

Give an unforgettable experience with an Immersion Tour, such

as a Dolphin Encounter or a Sleepover with the Sharks.

aqua.org/gifts

GIVE THE GIFT OF...For HER

MARAHLAGO LARIMAR JEWELRY

Sparkle like the Caribbean Sea! MarahLago’s Larimar jewelry matches elegance with style in these 1 1/4,” shining sterling silver and Larimar pendants. Each comes with a matching 18-inch chain.

LILLY PULITZER SCARF

Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase this limited edition Lilly Pulitzer scarf, designed to recognize the National Aquarium’s 30th birthday.

50% cashmere/ 50% silk and large enough to be used as a pashmina, this scarf represents a one-of-a-kind Lilly original. Every scarf purchase includes a generous donation to the National Aquarium.

PRICE $118.00

TO ORDER, CONTACT SUZANNE BOYLE AT 410-576-8877.

TURTLE PENDANTPRICE $129.99PRODUCT# 5394737

DOLPHIN PENDANTPRICE $139.99PRODUCT# 5394706


Due to the unique nature of Larimar, the gemstones in your piece may vary slightly from those pictured.

LADIES BOXERS

These pajama shorts are swimming with the Aquarium’s mascot—puffins!

PRICE $19.99 PRODUCT# 179332

For the HOLIDAYS

NATIONAL AQUARIUM ORNAMENT

Hang some memories of the National Aquarium on your tree this year.

PRICE $9.99 PRODUCT# 3484126

HAND-BLOWN SEA LIFE ORNAMENTS

Who knew sea life could be so shiny and beautiful? Our hand-blown ornaments are little works of art and beauty that will add a touch of unique grace to any tree. Each is unique in assorted colors.

CRABPRICE $16.99PRODUCT# 5777493

SEAHORSEPRICE $16.99PRODUCT# 5289279

SEA TURTLEPRICE $16.99PRODUCT# 5289293

JELLYFISHPRICE $16.99PRODUCT# 5289293

These gifts and more available 24 hours a day at:

shop.aqua.orgOr by calling

(443) 573-0852 (10am to 5pm daily)

Christmas DeliveryFor Christmas delivery, all orders must be received by 6 pm on Monday, December 17


For the HOME

DISHING UP® MARYLANDDishing Up® Maryland focuses on the diversity of Maryland’s native foods and includes 150 recipes, as well as food lore; advice on where to visit; and local food producers, chefs and restaurants, and fishermen and crabbers.

PRICE $19.95PRODUCT# 5686054

CHESAPEAKE BAY CRABSAn exploration of Bay heritage and recipes. This collection of cherished and award-winning recipes, both old and new, is accompanied by tales of Maryland’s seafood industry, one of the oldest industries in the nation.


FISHWICK WILDLIFE COLLECTIONStephen Fishwick infuses every original piece of artwork with the passion that drives him to create vibrant masterpieces in a short amount of time. Each striking work of art is gallery wrapped on canvas 1.5” thick.

KEMPS RIDLEY TURTLE CANVAS PRICE $99.9920” X 20” PRODUCT# 6484208'

PRICE $39.9912” X 12” PRODUCT# 6417886

SILENT KILLER CANVASPRICE $39.9912” X 12” PRODUCT# 6440198 (NOT PICTURED)

A LIFE AQUATIC DOLPHIN CANVASPRICE $39.9912” X 12” PRODUCT# 6417909

STARFISH GLASS COLLECTIONEach piece of our Starfish glassware is unique, featuring cutting and engraving done in the USA, giving each a distinctive charm that is timeless.

STARFISH CARAFE PRICE $49.99PRODUCT# 5767753

STARFISH WHITE WINE GLASS PRICE $14.99PRODUCT# 5767760

STARFISH STEMLESS WINE GLASS (15OZ)PRICE $ $12.99PRODUCT# 6384164

STARFISH RED WINE GLASS PRICE $14.99PRODUCT# 5767777

BRASWELL’S SELECT SAUCESSeafood Never Tasted So Good! The Braswell’s Select Seafood Collection is a comprehensive assortment of sauces, and seasonings that allow you to have an over-the-top seafood experience. Whether you’re making shrimp, crab, or fish, we have something special for you.

CRAB CAKE SAUCEPRICE $8.99PRODUCT# 4884598

SEASONING SPICE PRICE $8.99PRODUCT# 4884635

HOT SAUCEPRICE $4.99PRODUCT# 4884659

CAPER SAUCE PRICE $8.99PRODUCT# 6440365

REMOULADE DIP PRICE $7.99PRODUCT# 6440358

You probably have a favorite animal at the National Aquarium. Whether it’s a reptile, a shark, a mammal, or a bird, seeing it makes your visit special. By adopting an animal through our

animal adoption program, Aquadopt, you can help care for your favorite animal! Your gift helps to continue our

mission to inspire conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures. Packages start at $50.

Learn more at aqua.org/contribute

AQUADOPTS


For HIM

For KIDS

MEN’S FLEECE HOODIEWarn the sharks that cool weather is on the horizon with this fleece pullover sweatshirt.

PRICE $34.99PRODUCT# C4387C

SILK TURTLE NECKTIEGreen sea turtles swim freely over a background of ocean blue on this 100% silk necktie by Alynn Neckwear. Alynn Neckwear always features exclusive design elements in a variety of colorfully fun themes. This handsome novelty tie is perfect for marine animal lovers! Check out the pink sea turtles tie too! Dimensions: 3.5’’ x 57’’.


NATIONAL AQUARIUM EARTHENWARE MUGThis classic earthenware mug is hand-crafted by a master potter for the Aquarium. Each is unique in size and slight color variations. This functional mug is 100% lead-free and non-toxic making it food, oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe. Made in the U.S.A.


MARYLAND CURIOSITIESThis laugh-out-loud guide will introduce readers to the offbeat people, places, and events of the Old Line State.


RAVENSBURGER PUZZLEMake your puzzle come to life and experience a totally new visual reality!

To ensure that no two pieces are alike and guarantees a perfect interlocking fit, each piece is hand cut. It’s a fun look-&-find game as you “fish” for a variety of deep-sea inhabitants as they swim by, blending puzzles with technology. 1,000 pieces.


BUTTON BUNCHFun and colorful, the Button Bunch plush collection has no real buttons or small parts. These playful stuffed animals’ embellishments are all embroidered and therefore safe for ages 0+. Avaliable in additional animals online.

OCTOPUS


SEA TURTLE


CRAB


KIDS APPARELEnjoy some of our favorite kids apparel from the National Aquarium.

YOUTH TEES XS-LPRICE $19.99

YOUTH FLEECES XS-LPRICE $49.99


30 WATERMARKS | SUMMER 2 011

Non-profitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDBaltimore, MD

Permit No. 7625

501 East Pratt Street | Baltimore Maryland 21202

Return Service Required

DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER

Get up-close and personal with our world-famous bottlenose dolphins! Guests will be side-by-side with trainers in a hands-on training and play session.

DOLPHIN MORNINGS

Get your cameras ready—it’s high jump time! Join the dolphin trainers as we share secrets of our dolphin family.

SLEEPOVER WITH THE SHARKS

The ultimate shark-lover’s experience— an activity-filled overnight stay with top ocean predators. Take a nocturnal prowl behind-the-scenes with an expert guide, and dare to walk the catwalk as sharks swim silently beneath you!

DOLPHIN SLEEPOVER

It’s an unforgettable night dreaming with our dolphins. Get the inside scoop on our dolphin family and explore behind-the-scenes and more!

GALLERY TOUR

Capture a unique, insider’s view of the Aquarium during a guided Gallery Tour, and see our most popular exhibits before the crowds arrive.

SHARKS! BEHIND-THE- SCENES TOUR

Get uncomfortably close to the Aquarium’s shark collection as you explore behind-the-scenes with an expert guide, and dare to walk the catwalk as sharks swim silently beneath you!

GUEST DIVER PROGRAM

Experience the best diving in Maryland. Enjoy a dive in one of the Aquarium’s most popular exhibits—the Atlantic Coral Reef.

Expand Your Experience!Get behind-the-scenes in Baltimore

Visit aqua.org/immersion tours to learn more about these fascinating, behind-the-scenes adventures. Or, call 410-576-3833 Monday-Friday from 9 am–4:30 pm to make your reservation.*

* Programs subject to change.