Sea Lions Coming to the Aquarium at Mote Marine Laboratory in December
If you thought Mote’s penguins were cool, just wait ’til you see our edgy new offering: Sea Lions: On the Water’s Edge.
Appearing for a limited engagement, the exhibit — scheduled to open Dec. 1 and remain through spring 2013 — will be the second visiting exhibit hosted by The Aquarium at Mote Marine Laboratory. This new feature follows on the major success of Penguin Island, hosted by Mote in the fall of 2011 through spring 2012.
Appearing for a limited engagement, the exhibit — scheduled to open Dec. 1 and remain through spring 2013 — will be the second visiting exhibit hosted by The Aquarium at Mote Marine Laboratory.
Sea Lions: On the Water’s Edge will feature California and Patagonian sea lions and offer guests a chance to get close to these fascinating marine mammals. Mote is currently seeking sponsors for this fun and fascinating exhibit.
Protected by the 1972 U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act, California sea lions have rebounded over the decades. Pategonian sea lions — native to South America and not covered by the 1972 law — have also rebounded. In spite of these successes, both species continue to face threats that are similar to those faced by some of Florida’s own iconic species, particularly dolphins and sea turtles. These threats include injuries from fishing gear and marine debris, along with other complications of living in close proximity to humans.
Visiting Sea Lions: On the Water’s Edge will be included in the price of Mote Aquarium admission. Mote Members always get in free — and have the opportunity to visit the sea lions over and over again!
Sea lions belong to the scientific order Pinnipedia, along with seals, fur seals and walruses. This group name means “wing-footed” or “fin-footed” or even “flipper footed” in Latin, highlighting one feature that helps these marine mammals lead astounding double lives.
Whether you’re a seafarer or landlubber, there’s a lot to love about these animals that spend their lives both on land and in the sea. The exhibit will include special narrated demonstrations that highlight sea lions’ intelligence and natural abilities.
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