A visitor to the New England Aquarium, located on the harbor in Boston, can visit with a group of a dozen penguins playing on rocks made to resemble icebergs; see the waters of a four-story, 200,000 gallon ocean tank teeming with sea turtles, sharks, eels, and almost innumerable fish; and catch the improvised performances of a troupe of sea lions -- all while taking advantage of the many interactive exhibits, programs, and shows. The aquarium first opened in 1969 and currently houses some 10,000 animals representing more than 500 species. Some of the sea creatures at home in the aquarium were bred in captivity, but many were rescued from the waters and rocky shores of the New England coastline.

The staff of the aquarium includes biologists, rescue and rehabilitation experts, teachers, and veterinarians who work out of an on-site medical center. The biologists, vets, and rescue and rehabilitation workers work to help rescued creatures return to health and vitality, trainers focus a good deal of effort to teach the animals and provide mental stimulation through a series of games and tricks.

Special Thanks
Marc Morrone, Anthony LaCasse (media relations director), Bryan Martin (marine mammal trainer), Sherrie Floyd (senior aquarist and diver), Sarah Bean (biologist), Adam Kennedy (technician), and Jill and Max Hathaway.

Resources
For more information about the New England Aquarium in Boston, visit neaq.org.