It’s Shark Summer at Birch Aquarium! Have you ever wondered what species swim in our local waters? Or wanted to know what makes sharks such unique animals? This July, join us as we dive deep into the world of these amazing animals, with fin-tastic fun for shark fans of all ages! Shark Summer celebrates the vital role sharks play in the ecosystem, while shining a light on the important conservation work and research being done to protect them. “Birch Aquarium is partnered with SAFE Sharks and Rays to take action that supports shark and ray populations around the globe,” said Brent Fish, Aquarist. “Like so many other species, sharks and rays face threats to their habitats and ecosystems, and they need our help.” Catch shark feedings, trivia nights, weekend activations and more throughout the month. Weekend activities will take place July 13-14, 20-21 and 27-28 with additional activities during the week. Shark Summer Schedule of Events/Activities Include: Scheduled Shark Feedings: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1 p.m., Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. Scheduled Kelp Forest Dives: Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. Shark Exploration Stations: Saturdays and Sundays Meet the Shark Specialist Station: July 13 & 14 Shark Themed Oceans at Night: July 25 Trivia Nights featuring Scripps researcher interactions with drinks and food available for purchase on Blue Beach: Wednesdays July 17 and 31 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. And more! During Shark Summer, proceeds collected in the donation box in the aquarium’s Galleria benefit the Association of Zoos and Aquariums SAFE Sharks and Rays program, a collaborative effort by more than 60 organizations nationwide to work together to save the more than 1200 species of sharks and rays worldwide from extinction through evidence-based education and communication. Activities offered during normal business hours are included with the cost of General Admission while others (such as Oceans at Night) require separate admission. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for the Daily Schedule with all of the details. Now through Labor Day, the aquarium is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on select nights and advanced reservations are recommended for all guests, except members. About Birch Aquarium at Scripps: Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the public exploration center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Birch Aquarium features the groundbreaking work of Scripps Oceanography and UC San Diego scientists as well as conservation breeding programs, and interactive exhibits. Birch Aquarium’s mission is to connect understanding to protecting our ocean planet, which the aquarium achieves through engaging hands-on learning opportunities for more than 500,000 guests and 40,000-plus pre-K-12 students each year. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information. Birch Aquarium on Facebook / Instagram
