Clearwater Marine Aquarium Clearwater Fl United States
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a non-profit organization located in Clearwater, Florida, United States. It is home to various marine animals, including dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, and pelicans. The aquarium is open to the public and offers various educational programs and interactive experiences for visitors.
History
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium was founded in 1972 as a small, local marine life rescue center. Over the years, it has grown into a full-fledged aquarium and rehabilitation center, with a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine animals back into their natural habitats.
Rescue and Rehabilitation
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is primarily a rescue and rehabilitation center for marine animals. It takes in injured or sick animals and provides them with medical care and rehabilitation until they are healthy enough to be released back into the wild. The aquarium has successfully released hundreds of animals back into their natural habitats over the years.
Dolphins
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is perhaps best known for its resident dolphins. The aquarium is home to several dolphins, including Winter, the star of the hit movie "Dolphin Tale." Winter lost her tail after getting caught in a crab trap and was brought to the aquarium for rehabilitation. With the help of a specially designed prosthetic tail, Winter was able to swim again and has since become a symbol of hope and inspiration for many.
Sea Turtles
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is also home to several sea turtles, including those that have been rescued and are undergoing rehabilitation. Visitors can learn about the different species of sea turtles and the threats they face in the wild.
River Otters
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to several river otters, which are known for their playful behavior. Visitors can watch the otters swim, play, and interact with each other.
Pelicans
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is also home to several pelicans, which are a common sight in the area. Visitors can learn about the different species of pelicans and their behavior in the wild.
Educational Programs
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers various educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs include guided tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities that teach visitors about marine life and conservation.
Interactive Experiences
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium also offers several interactive experiences for visitors. These include swimming with dolphins, feeding sea turtles, and touching stingrays.
Visiting the Aquarium
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is open to the public seven days a week. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the aquarium. The aquarium is located in downtown Clearwater and is easily accessible by car or public transportation.
Conclusion
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life and conservation. With its focus on rescue and rehabilitation, the aquarium provides a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in dolphins, sea turtles, or river otters, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium has something for everyone.
