Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg Shark Attack
The Story of Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg Shark Attack
Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg, located in Tennessee, is a popular tourist attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. However, in 2015, the aquarium made headlines for a different reason - a shark attack.
The attack occurred on March 18, 2015, when a diver named Devon Kesling was cleaning the shark tank. Kesling was in the tank with several sharks, including a sand tiger shark named Sally. Suddenly, Sally attacked Kesling, biting him on the calf.
The Aftermath of the Attack
Kesling was rushed to the hospital, where he received 50 stitches. He was lucky to survive the attack, as sand tiger sharks are known for their aggressive behavior. Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg immediately closed the shark exhibit and launched an investigation into the incident.
The investigation revealed that Kesling had violated the aquarium's safety protocols by wearing brightly colored clothing and standing too close to the sharks. The aquarium also added new safety measures, such as installing a net over the tank to prevent divers from getting too close to the sharks.
The Controversy Surrounding the Attack
The shark attack at Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg sparked controversy and raised questions about the safety of aquariums and zoos. Some animal rights activists criticized the aquarium for keeping sharks in captivity and argued that the incident was a result of the animals' unnatural environment.
However, others defended the aquarium, pointing out that the attack was caused by human error rather than the sharks' behavior. They argued that aquariums and zoos play an important role in education and conservation, and that they provide a safe environment for endangered species.
The Future of Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg
Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg has since reopened its shark exhibit, with enhanced safety measures in place. The aquarium continues to be a popular tourist attraction, with over 1.4 million visitors each year.
Despite the controversy surrounding the shark attack, Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg remains committed to its mission of educating the public about marine life and promoting conservation efforts. The aquarium offers a variety of exhibits and educational programs, and continues to be a beloved destination for families and tourists alike.
Conclusion
The shark attack at Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg was a terrifying incident that raised important questions about the safety of aquariums and zoos. While some criticized the aquarium for keeping sharks in captivity, others defended its role in conservation and education. Regardless of one's opinion, it is clear that the incident led to increased safety measures and a renewed commitment to marine conservation at Ripley's Aquarium Gatlinburg.
