Aquariums Highlight Animal Care, Conservation, Visitor Experiences

Aquariums are drawing attention through animal encounters, conservation work and seasonal programming. In Minnesota, rescue kittens explored Sea Life at the Mall of America, while the Shreveport Aquarium is pairing public feedings and animal-care education with fall events. The New England Aquarium is mourning three longtime animal ambassadors—a harbor seal and two African penguins—whose lives and personalities resonated with staff and visitors; the penguins’ descendants also contribute to a species-survival program. South Africa’s Two Oceans Aquarium has introduced visitors to a basket star, a rare-looking brittle star whose branching arms can regenerate after being shed. A travel guide also spotlights U.S. aquariums, including Georgia Aquarium and Monterey Bay Aquarium, for their major exhibits and visitor experiences.