Aquarium To Shake Hands With Otters
Introduction
Aquariums are always fun and relaxing places to visit. The colorful fishes and other aquatic animals make the whole experience worthwhile. However, have you ever heard of an aquarium where you can shake hands with otters? Yes, you heard it right. The Oregon Coast Aquarium has introduced a new program where visitors can get up close and personal with the cute and playful sea otters.
The Oregon Coast Aquarium
The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located on the beautiful Yaquina Bay in Newport, Oregon. It is a non-profit organization that aims to educate people about the marine life of the Pacific Northwest. The aquarium is home to more than 15,000 animals, including sea otters, seals, sea lions, octopuses, and various fish species.
The Sea Otters
Sea otters are one of the most adorable marine mammals, known for their playful behavior and cute faces. They are found along the coasts of the Pacific Ocean, from Alaska to California. The Oregon Coast Aquarium has four rescued sea otters, named Juno, Oswald, Schuster, and Adaa. The otters are trained to interact with visitors, and they love to show off their tricks and skills.
The Shake Hands Program
The Shake Hands Program is a unique experience where visitors can get a chance to interact with the sea otters. The program is designed to create awareness about sea otters and their habitat. Visitors can touch and feel the otters' fur, watch them play, and even shake hands with them. The program is available for a limited time, and visitors need to book their tickets in advance.
The Importance of Sea Otters
Sea otters play a vital role in maintaining the ecosystem of the Pacific Ocean. They are considered as a keystone species because they feed on sea urchins, which are herbivores that feed on kelp. Kelp is an essential habitat for various fish and invertebrates. Without sea otters, the sea urchin population would increase, leading to a decline in kelp forests, resulting in the loss of habitat for many marine organisms. Therefore, it is crucial to protect and conserve sea otters and their habitat.
The Conclusion
The Oregon Coast Aquarium's Shake Hands Program is an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn about sea otters and their habitat. The program is unique and provides an unforgettable experience for visitors. It is essential to promote conservation and protection of sea otters and their habitat to maintain the balance of the marine ecosystem.