The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is shedding light on the profound impact that animal extinction has on all of us with a new conservation initiative, Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE). In an effort to raise awareness about endangered animals and the work being done to prevent extinction, AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums all over the country are asking our visitors to consider what it would be like if we were never be able to see, learn from or connect with these animals again.
May 15 is Endangered Species Day and we would like to ask you to consider what it would be like to live in a world without sea turtles. All seven species of sea turtles are either threatened or endangered, in large part due to human activity that negatively affects the health of our oceans.
Our Sea Turtle Rescue Program has facilitated the rescue, rehabilitation and release of 163 sea turtles since opening. In addition to providing expert medical care to these sick and injured turtles, the Aquarium educates visitors and inspires care of sea turtles and marine habitats through engaging up-close encounters with turtles and their caretakers during behind-the-scenes tours of the Sea Turtle Hospital.
In 2016, we will deepen our impact on sea turtle conservation by constructing a state-of-the-art Sea Turtle Hospital on the Aquarium’s main floor. The new hospital will provide an accessible vantage point for all visitors to observe the day-to-day care of sea turtles undergoing rehabilitation. The expansion will significantly improve the level of care we are able to provide turtles onsite with the addition of new medical equipment, new tanks that can accommodate larger species, an exercise pool to prepare the turtles for release and additional laboratory space.
Become an ambassador for these threatened and endangered animals by supporting the conservation and rehabilitation of sea turtles. Make a donation to the Aquarium’s Watershed Fund, a campaign to optimize our education and conservation programs, including the Sea Turtle Hospital Expansion.
Use #SavingSpecies to join the conversation about animal conservation and AZA SAFE.