Guest Programs Abstracts
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Shark Talk - How to Train, Care For, Protect, and Educate Elizabeth Huber, Dolphin Quest Hawaii Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Dolphin Quest Hawaii temporarily acquired two blacktip reef sharks in 2013 from an oceanographic school as educational ambassadors for their wild counterparts. Their habitat viewing was free and open to the public giving guests a unique opportunity to learn about them in a way they may not have otherwise had. During a daily Shark Talk we coupled trained behaviors with conservation messaging allowing us to dispel many of the myths and misconceptions guests had about sharks. Guests also learned about threats sharks face in the wild and what they could do to help them. In preparation for their return back to the school, we trained an innovative, voluntary collection for one of the sharks. Our continued involvement with the school is helping to teach the next generation about the importance of sharks, bridging the gap in conservation management and how to enhance the wellness of animals under human care. |
The Other Side of the Acrylic; Taking Guest Interaction to a New Level Denise Swider, Discovery Cove Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Discovery Cove is an interactive resort-style zoological park. Since its inception in 2000, Discovery Cove has been immersing guests into animal environments achieving its mission to inspire people to appreciate and care for animals, both in the park and around the world. In 2017, Discovery Cove added two new guest interactive programs. “Ray Feeding” creates an opportunity for guests to join the aquarists for a morning ray feeding followed by a guided swim in the Grand Reef. “Shark Swim” allows a limited number of guests to participate in a shark training session, learn about shark behavior, physiology, and conservation and freely swim with multiple shark species. Developing and implementing two new revenue-generating guest interactive programs in the span of four months proved to be an exciting and challenging undertaking. Experienced shark personnel and the collaborative efforts of multiple departments facilitated a safe and successful launch for both programs. |
Her Name is Lola: Incorporating a Prosthetic (Lepidochelys kempii) Flipper Research Project into Contemporary Rehabilitation Practices and Public Education Programs
Genya Yerkes, Key West Aquarium Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
The purpose of this project is rehabilitation via prosthesis and contemporary behavioral conditioning techniques, enabling a “powerstroke” that was previously unattainable. This project has also concurrently supported a heightened level of public awareness in supporting conservation, as called for in sections I-36 to I-38 in the Bi-National Recovery Plan. Guests observe us fit the prosthesis daily, which was created by PhD candidates at Worchester Polytechnic University with carapace dimensions, x-rays, MRI scans, and data provided by KWAQ. By incorporating the daily task of fitting the apparatus onto the amputee into our daily “Sea Turtle Conservation” talk, guests have a real-time experience with an active research project. It has greatly increased our ability to effectively educate the public. Through attendance data, guest surveys, and veterinary feedback we have concluded that these areas have benefitted from the prosthesis project: Conservation Goals/Quality of Life/Research Data/Future positive impacts on chelonian amputees /Public Outreach/Media Coverage |
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Importance of Social Media in Regards to Animal Care and Conservation
Angelina Komatovich, Aquarium of the Pacific Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
As aquarists, we create exhibits that tell stories. However, we spend most of our time behind the scenes, hidden from public view. The Aquarium of the Pacific has created a new senior aquarist responsibility titled Social Media Liaison. This role provides a conduit for increased communication between departments to better support the Aquarium’s mission. The liaison is responsible for facilitating interesting information to the development, marketing, and education departments. This new position greatly increases the timeliness and exposure of stories regarding the critical nature of the aquarist’s role in animal care. Social media can be used as a tool to promote conservation, research, recruit volunteers/interns, inspire donors, and highlight the exceptional care we provide our animals. Through this internal collaboration, we extend our reach beyond aquarium visitors, providing the global public with a deeper sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems. |