La Jolla's Birch Aquarium is making waves with its Shark Summer extravaganza, scheduled to kick off this July. Shark enthusiasts and curious visitors can immerse themselves in shark-related things, from learning about local species to understanding their critical role in the ecosystem. The series of shark-centric happenings at the aquarium promises much jaw-some fun.
According to the aquarium's splashy announcement of the event, this isn't just a series of meet-and-greets with the ocean's most misunderstood predators. Brent Fish, an aquarist, emphasized the conservation angle, saying, "Birch Aquarium is partnered with SAFE Sharks and Rays to take action that supports shark and ray populations around the globe." Because, let's face it, without these magnificent creatures, our oceans would be like a sea without salt.
The calendar is packed with shark feedings on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, kelp forest dives four times a week, and hands-on shark exploration stations on weekends. But wait, there's more! Pencil in the weekend of July 13-14 to 'Meet the Shark Specialist,' and stay late on July 25 for a 'Shark Themed Oceans at Night' experience. The aquarium even throws in trivia nights to test your shark IQ, complete with sustenance and suds on Blue Beach.
All this fin-tastic fun does more than entertain. It supports a cause. As visitors dive into shark-infested waters, they'll be swimming alongside the mission of the SAFE Sharks and Rays program, designed to keep these critical species from the brink of extinction. The program, a collaborative effort by a school of more than 60 organizations, aims to provide a lifeline to over 1200 species of sharks and rays through education and communication, according to the announcement.
Most events are included with general admission unless you opt for something a bit more special, like the nocturnal ocean adventure that is 'Oceans at Night.' Visit the Birch Aquarium website to snag the daily schedule's nitty-gritty and make your reservations, especially since they're recommended for all guests throughout the summer season, which extends from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on select nights until Labor Day.
