Learn why seals don’t need jackets at the Exploration Center and Aquarium this October

NEWPORT, RI – This October at Save The Bay’s Exploration Center and Aquarium, the amazing adaptations of its residents are on display. Visitors will learn about unique animal adaptations, enjoy an interactive story time and go searching around the Aquarium during an adaptation-themed scavenger hunt. Guests also can engage in a unique arts and crafts project creating their own adaptation that they believe would help them survive in Narragansett Bay.

Adaptations, sometimes called adaptive traits, have a functional role in the life of an organism. They can be expressed in physical characteristics and behaviors that allow a particular species to thrive in its ecosystem. Many creatures in our oceans have unique traits that allow them to survive. As the weather begins to get colder in Narragansett Bay, those adaptations will become very important for survival, such as a harbor seal’s blubber and the tough shell of a horseshoe crab.

The Exploration Center and Aquarium is an interactive, hands-on marine science center that is home to more than 40 species from Narragansett Bay, including rare lobsters, crabs, seahorses, sea robins, terrapins and more. Three touch tanks allow visitors to get up close and personal with little skates, urchins, spider crabs, sea stars and dogfish sharks––all from local waters. With Newport’s only ocean-facing beach just outside the front door, guests can continue exploring after their visit.

Also in October, Feeding Frenzy is a must-do event on Thursday, October 20, from 5-6 p.m. when visitors can help aquarium staff feed the fish, turtles, sharks and more. Tickets are limited and can be purchased at www.savebay.org/aquarium.

The Exploration Center and Aquarium is located in the Easton’s Beach Rotunda at 175 Memorial Blvd. in Newport, R.I. General admission is $8; and $7 for military and senior citizens. Save The Bay Family Members enjoy FREE admission for 2 adults and up to 4 children. The Exploration Center and Aquarium will be open on Monday, October 10 for Columbus Day.

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