Excerpted from the syllabus:
Annotated bibliographies ... will be shared with the class and form the basis of analysis of existing displays at local oceanaria and development of plans for new exhibits. ...
We will be visiting a number of educational sites. Students are encouraged to visit other sites as well. The Clearwater Aquarium, Tampa Aquarium (ecosystems are described, but no live marine mammals are displayed), Busch Gardens, and Sea World (Orlando) are all within two hours drive.
Other Sites:
- The South Florida Museum/Bishop Planetarium/Parker Aquarium - Up in Bradenton, this unusual museum is the home of two male manatees. Snooty is the oldest known manatee. Born and raised in captivity, he is the official mascot of Manatee County. Mo is considerably younger, but the two seem to get along. Open 10 - 5 on Mon - Sat and noon - 5 on Sun. $7.50 regular admission, but they have a student discount.
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium - A nonprofit educational facility in Clearwater, Florida. Home of rescued dolphin Sunset Sam and many other marine creatures. Open 9 - 5 weekdays, 9- 4 Sat and 11 - 4 Sun. $7.75 regular admission, but they have a group rate of $4.75/person for 10 or more, and an education rate of $3.75/person.
- Lowry Park Zoo - Located in Tampa Bay, this zoo is the home of some manatees. Open 9 - 5, 7 days a week. $9.50 adult admission; credit cards accepted.
- The Florida Aquarium - Located in Tampa. No marine mammal exhibits, but lots of marine life. Open 9:30 - 5, 7 days a week. $12.95 adult admission, or with a $3 discount if ordered in advance on-line.
- SeaWorld Orlando - In Orlando (duh), this park Anheuser Busch's most popular, attracting 5 million visitors every year. Home to a few of the "Shamus" and the expected variety of dolphins, sea lions, and more. Open varying hours, 9 - 6 or later. $48 for a single-day ticket (or a year long fun pass). See also Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
We can also always go back to TECO or Mote or just hang out on the beach for free! ;-)
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