In other news, the newish False Pilchard habitat is nice, it also has brown shrimp. It replaced the living coral tank, they now have a significantly larger coral area on the roof, and it is open to the public.
Florida Aquarium Florida Aquarium News & Notes
When I visited Topeka Zoo in the summer of 2012, there was a temporary, seasonal exhibit called 'Penguin Plunge' and I've attached my photo of it. I wonder if the Florida Aquarium's penguin exhibit is going to be temporary? There are certainly many similarities between the two atrocious enclosures.
Topeka Zoo (August 7th, 2012):
Topeka Zoo (August 7th, 2012):
As far as I am aware it is not intended to be temporary, although they look incredibly similar. Clearly they were inspired or even copied those old traveling habitats. They've had these penguins for quite some years now, they just have been behind the scenes for that time, doing paid encounters and special events.When I visited Topeka Zoo in the summer of 2012, there was a temporary, seasonal exhibit called 'Penguin Plunge' and I've attached my photo of it. I wonder if the Florida Aquarium's penguin exhibit is going to be temporary? There are certainly many similarities between the two atrocious enclosures.
Topeka Zoo (August 7th, 2012):
Honeycomb Eels have been added to the Bays and Beaches area:
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Flighted Raptor show started yesterday, outside on the roof top terrace, it is temporary and runs through Labor Day. Honestly, that is kind of the worst time of year to have an outdoor bird show...but still I am interested in seeing it. Presumably it is some sort of traveling show.
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I went to the Aquarium today, the raptor show was ...not great. We stuck around for about 20 minutes and the only bird shown was a harris hawk. I'm sure there were more birds coming out, but I rather had spent our time seeing the other animals.
Side note, while at the penguin building I overheard two other groups commenting on how small it was. They also had 4 birds in it rather than the 3 I was told previously were rotated in at a time
Side note, while at the penguin building I overheard two other groups commenting on how small it was. They also had 4 birds in it rather than the 3 I was told previously were rotated in at a time
A new............African penguin has cleared quarantine and is in the new "habitat". That should mean they have 10 animals, provided none have passed away in the last month or so.
The Florida Aquarium - Meet Azizi, our newest African Penguin! | Facebook | By The Florida Aquarium | Say hello to our newest resident, Azizi the African Penguin!
The Florida Aquarium - Meet Azizi, our newest African Penguin! | Facebook | By The Florida Aquarium | Say hello to our newest resident, Azizi the African Penguin!
A new over water tank with red breast sunfish has been installed in the Florida Wetlands area:
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Paywall, so I can't read the article, but the Aquarium is planning a major expansion for California sea lions, puffins, and a new good African Penguin habitat to replace the terrible one they have now. Unfortunately it looks like the penguin and sea lions will replace where the splash pad is now. Kids love that splash pad. It looks like the puffins will be in the entry area in front of the restaurant.
https://www.bizjournals.com/tampaba...ta&ana=e_ta_BN&j=28747612&senddate=2022-08-16
https://www.bizjournals.com/tampaba...ta&ana=e_ta_BN&j=28747612&senddate=2022-08-16
Here are some free articles about the expansion plans that provide additional details. This will be a three phase project with each phase opening annually. Phase 1 involves turning the existing ballroom space into a special exhibits gallery which will be done by Summer 2023. Phase 2 is the puffin exhibit being built on the second-floor lobby which will also include additional fish such as Atlantic salmon, which will be completed in 2024. The final phase is for the outdoor expansion featuring the sea lion and penguin exhibits, which will open in 2025.
The Florida Aquarium $40M expansion: New animals, exhibits coming | wtsp.com
https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/...-aquariums-first-major-development-since-1995
The Florida Aquarium $40M expansion: New animals, exhibits coming | wtsp.com
https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/...-aquariums-first-major-development-since-1995
They also sent an email to members a little bit ago:
$40M Expansion Announced By The Florida Aquarium
We are thrilled to share with you, our valued members, some exciting news! We are expanding - in a BIG and boisterous way! Sea lions are coming to The Florida Aquarium in 2025. This breaking news is only part of the excitement and the $40-million planned expansion.
The project, which has three phases, will begin in January of 2023 and is scheduled for completion in 2025. It includes the addition of a rotating special exhibit gallery, converting the second-floor lobby into a multi-species gallery that features puffins, and a large-scale outdoor exhibit featuring - for the first time on the west coast of Florida - California sea lions. A significant African penguin habitat will also be part of the outdoor expansion. The designs of all three phases of expansion prioritize animal welfare standards.
“We are reinvigorating The Florida Aquarium by creating innovative and immersive habitats and exhibits, providing captivating guest experiences, and expanding our dynamic animal collection that advances our commitment to saving wildlife and wild places,” said Roger Germann, president and CEO. “Today we take a major step forward in building the world-class aquarium that Tampa Bay deserves.”
This marks the first major expansion for The Florida Aquarium since its opening in 1995.
Phase I: Scheduled for completion in 2023, will transform the existing ballroom space in the Mosaic Center into a 3,700-square-foot flexible and dynamic special exhibit hall.
Phase II: Slated for 2024, will transport visitors to the rocky coasts and will feature an extraordinary two-level puffin habitat complete with a kelp forest, Atlantic salmon and other larger fish species. Multiple viewing windows measuring over 20’ will surely be a member visit highlight for the enjoyment of these fun-to-watch birds.
Phase III: For planned completion in 2025, this phase will feature three separate but interconnected sea lion spaces, which collectively measure over 200,000 gallons! Plus, there will be underwater viewing and overlook seating. The outdoor plaza will include a 39,500-gallon African penguin habitat to provide optimal welfare for a colony of up to 30 penguins. A park-like atmosphere for the plaza will enhance an already exceptional experience.
This news marks the beginning of an exciting journey for The Florida Aquarium. And, it’s all due to the support of members like you!
My thoughts on this expansion:
Overall this is a great expansion for them, unfortunately it does not really facilitate conservation of Florida animals. At one point there was talk of adding manatees or dolphins; I believe it was to this same part of the building/grounds, but I do not know that for sure. Manatees would have been the preferred choice, but I guess they are going this direction.
- It looks like the quality of these habitats will match the exceptional habitats that were a part of the original building but lagged as time went by - so that is wonderful.
- Puffins are one of my favorite aquatic birds, that part of the project is exciting.
- Sea lions are always entertaining, and a well done outdoor habitat is a nice addition.
- The new penguin habitat is wonderful, the current one is terrible. This looks exceptional.
- I am saddened by the loss of the splash pad. While I understand that area is about the only open space (and certainly the largest outdoor space) the Aquarium has, it is still disappointing. Perhaps they will be able to integrate some sort of splash area into the design, that has been done before in other places. It cannot be the scale of the current splash pad, but it would be something.
- I am also saddened by the further departure from the focus on Florida environments and the original goal of "telling the story of Florida's water from spring to ocean". It set the FL Aquarium apart from other generic aquariums.
While that move started way back with the addition of "Madagascar", the overall aquarium was still mainly "Florida". It would have been cool if they had been able to use a different species than California Sea Lion. Using a monk seal species would have been able to at least tie into the Caribbean Monk seal. But that is what it is.
Overall this is a great expansion for them, unfortunately it does not really facilitate conservation of Florida animals. At one point there was talk of adding manatees or dolphins; I believe it was to this same part of the building/grounds, but I do not know that for sure. Manatees would have been the preferred choice, but I guess they are going this direction.
Social media and a contact at the FLA confirms that a redesigned splash area will be included in the outdoor area. That alleviates one of my major concerns. The one image I saw of the indoor puffin/salmon habitat looks really good. If done well it could be one of the premier puffin habitats.
Images from the expansion article on Tampa Bay Business Journal:
Instagram and Facebook posts show new goliath grouper/s in the coral reef tank. Their previous one lived in the bays and beaches section but recently passed.
The Florida Aquarium on Instagram: "We’ve got some goliath news! Stay tuned to learn more about the new residents at The Florida Aquarium."
The Florida Aquarium on Instagram: "We’ve got some goliath news! Stay tuned to learn more about the new residents at The Florida Aquarium."
Instagram post shows they have Goliath Grouper in the Bays and Beaches bridge pilings tank again with the addition of a 90lb fish. This means they seem to have two of these fish including the aforementioned individual in the coral reef tank.
The Florida Aquarium on Instagram: "Part 1 of 2: Goliath News! The bridge pilings habitat is historically known for being home to Goliath Groupers. The tradition returns! Peek into this underwater world and spy a 90lb new resident. Associate Curator Cristy says, “It was a big day for the long time Animal Care staff here! We’ve introduced a Goliath Grouper into this exhibit and could not be more excited. We know the guests will love it as much as we do.”"
The Florida Aquarium on Instagram: "Part 1 of 2: Goliath News! The bridge pilings habitat is historically known for being home to Goliath Groupers. The tradition returns! Peek into this underwater world and spy a 90lb new resident. Associate Curator Cristy says, “It was a big day for the long time Animal Care staff here! We’ve introduced a Goliath Grouper into this exhibit and could not be more excited. We know the guests will love it as much as we do.”"
Other 2022 News:
On January 14th, it was reported that the founder and brainchild of the Florida Aquarium, Bill Crown, has passed away on January 12 at age 80 due to stage pancreatic cancer.
Bill Crown, driving force behind Tampa’s Florida Aquarium, dies at 80
On January 24th, the aquarium announced that they were closed until January 28th due to exhibit upgrades and other various projects.
Virtual Visit | To help us get a jump on spring cleaning, The Florida Aquarium will be closed today through Friday, January 28! As we work to unleash our inner sparkle,... | By The Florida Aquarium | Facebook
Spring Cleaning | The Aquarium’s spring cleaning projects are well underway! We can’t wait for you to see the results. #FloridaAquarium #SpringCleaning Wetlands dome... | By The Florida Aquarium | Facebook
On February 7th, the aquarium announced they acquired (0.0.2+?) frilled sea hares which are now on exhibit in the Bays and Beaches gallery.
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On February 17th, the aquarium announced they acquired (0.0.6) African penguins.
Penguins Arrive at The Florida Aquarium | Our penguin colony has expanded by six! The arrival of these species ambassadors is important as we work to advance our mission to save species, like... | By The Florida Aquarium | Facebook
On May 11th, the aquarium announced they acquired (0.0.450+) fish of various species which are now in a "multitude of exhibits".
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On June 8th, it was reported that the aquarium placed 560 corals of 4 species in an offshore reef site near Long Key, Florida.
Florida Aquarium raise 500 corals outplanted in Keys | wtsp.com
On June 9th, it was reported that in partnership with the Tampa Bay Rays, (0.0.11) cownose rays were transferred to a new 10,000 gallon touch tank inside Tropicana Field.
Tropicana Field welcomes cownose stingrays in new touch experience
On June 10th, it was reported that the aquarium opened a new exhibit called Ocean Decade Exhibitation, which is an art showcase located on the 2nd floor of the facility.
Florida Aquarium unveils new exhibit to show importance of the ocean
On June 30th, it was announced that the facility received $449,228 from the AZA and US Fish and Wildlife Service for the care of endangered species.
More Than $9 Million Awarded for Endangered Species Care During Pandemic | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
On July 23rd, it was reported that the aquarium unveiled a new program called SeaTrek, which aims to be an underwater guided walking tour.
Florida Aquarium unveils SeaTrek program for underserved communities
*Misc news: In January, the aquarium bought 2 hydraulic veterinary tables for their seabirds. On March 23rd, the aquarium donated 40 mangrove trees to St. Pete College STEM Center. In April, they planted 2 mulberry trees on-site. Throughout the year they rehabilitated and released sea turtles back into the wild.
On January 14th, it was reported that the founder and brainchild of the Florida Aquarium, Bill Crown, has passed away on January 12 at age 80 due to stage pancreatic cancer.
Bill Crown, driving force behind Tampa’s Florida Aquarium, dies at 80
On January 24th, the aquarium announced that they were closed until January 28th due to exhibit upgrades and other various projects.
Virtual Visit | To help us get a jump on spring cleaning, The Florida Aquarium will be closed today through Friday, January 28! As we work to unleash our inner sparkle,... | By The Florida Aquarium | Facebook
Spring Cleaning | The Aquarium’s spring cleaning projects are well underway! We can’t wait for you to see the results. #FloridaAquarium #SpringCleaning Wetlands dome... | By The Florida Aquarium | Facebook
On February 7th, the aquarium announced they acquired (0.0.2+?) frilled sea hares which are now on exhibit in the Bays and Beaches gallery.
Log into Facebook
On February 17th, the aquarium announced they acquired (0.0.6) African penguins.
Penguins Arrive at The Florida Aquarium | Our penguin colony has expanded by six! The arrival of these species ambassadors is important as we work to advance our mission to save species, like... | By The Florida Aquarium | Facebook
On May 11th, the aquarium announced they acquired (0.0.450+) fish of various species which are now in a "multitude of exhibits".
Log into Facebook
On June 8th, it was reported that the aquarium placed 560 corals of 4 species in an offshore reef site near Long Key, Florida.
Florida Aquarium raise 500 corals outplanted in Keys | wtsp.com
On June 9th, it was reported that in partnership with the Tampa Bay Rays, (0.0.11) cownose rays were transferred to a new 10,000 gallon touch tank inside Tropicana Field.
Tropicana Field welcomes cownose stingrays in new touch experience
On June 10th, it was reported that the aquarium opened a new exhibit called Ocean Decade Exhibitation, which is an art showcase located on the 2nd floor of the facility.
Florida Aquarium unveils new exhibit to show importance of the ocean
On June 30th, it was announced that the facility received $449,228 from the AZA and US Fish and Wildlife Service for the care of endangered species.
More Than $9 Million Awarded for Endangered Species Care During Pandemic | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
On July 23rd, it was reported that the aquarium unveiled a new program called SeaTrek, which aims to be an underwater guided walking tour.
Florida Aquarium unveils SeaTrek program for underserved communities
*Misc news: In January, the aquarium bought 2 hydraulic veterinary tables for their seabirds. On March 23rd, the aquarium donated 40 mangrove trees to St. Pete College STEM Center. In April, they planted 2 mulberry trees on-site. Throughout the year they rehabilitated and released sea turtles back into the wild.
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What about the current news of them closing til further notice due to hurricane Ian?
if someone else wants to report on it then that's fine with me.
Yeah, pretty much everything is closing up down here for the next couple of days until the storm passes. .