At the Mystic Aquarium

SCHOOL OF REHAB Since 1975, Mystic Aquarium's Animal Rescue Program has been rescuing and rehabilitating marine animals along 1,000 miles of the Northeastern coastline - all with the ultimate goal of releasing the animal back to its ocean habitat. Working closely with several government agencies and partnering with many other rehab facilities, our program is a shining example of how collaborating with like-minded organizations can truly make a difference. With over 40 years of experience, it's safe to say our Rescue Program is at the top of its class. So take a seat, pull out your notebook and get ready to learn about marine animal rescue from the pros! ADMISSION PROCESS Whether it's rescued by our team or is transferred from another facility, each seal goes through the same admission process: Body temperature and measurements are taken including weight and length Eyes, ears, mouth and nose are checked Vets listen for abnormalities in the heart, lungs and stomach Blood is drawn and other cultures collected to test for various pathogens Body is examined for external wounds or entanglement Radiographs (or x-rays) are often taken to check for signs of internal damage THE LESSON PLAN Once test results are complete and a rehab plan is in place, our animal care team integrates the new admit into an already fluid (and busy!) daily routine which generally includes: Meal times with different feeding methods based on the age and rehab level of each seal Administration of medications, therapies or wound care Routine medical exams on a weekly basis and surgeries, as needed GRADUATION DAY After the wounds are healed, the coughs subside, the infections are cleared and the seal aces a series of physical tests (Can it haul out of the water? Is it able to actively fish?), the team preps for release day: NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) is contacted with a proposed release date Aquarium volunteers are recruited to help ensure a safe release day for the animal and community supporters The seal travels with the Rescue Team to the beach where the healthy animal returns to its ocean environment

Want to learn more about Mystic Aquarium's Animal Rescue Program? Click Here!

ANIMAL SPOTLIGHT: Giant Clam These bottom-dwelling invertebrates are the largest of all mollusks, reaching lengths of up to four feet and weighing more than 500 pounds. Native to the warm waters of the South Pacific and Indian Oceans, the giant clam fastens itself to a single spot on a reef and remains there for the rest of its life (which could last up to 100+ years!). Click image above to learn about our giant clam and its prosthetic hinge.

Here's a great back to school - and everyday - tip to keep in mind: Paper is the biggest form of waste that comes from schools. To help keep paper waste at bay, use both sides of your writing paper for notes, reports, doodles and more. Then, be sure to recycle.

A message from our friends at The Mystic Hilton The Mystic Hilton Summer Concert Series may be coming to a close, but it’s finishing strong with Northern Sharks Aug. 24 and Another Tequila Sunrise Aug. 30! Don’t miss the conclusion of this incredible free concert series; the perfect way to spend those end-of-summer nights. Parking is always free, food and beverages available for purchase. Click here for complete details from The IRONS.

Mystic Aquarium is a nonprofit organization with a mission to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through conservation, education and research. MYSTIC AQUARIUM 55 Coogan Blvd | Mystic, CT 06355 | 860.572.5955