On Valentine’s weekend, hand-feed sweet nibbles to your favorite … crustaceans, elasmobranchs and other sea creatures during a special behind-the-scenes experience for couples in The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk.
On Sat., Feb. 10, The Maritime Aquarium is putting a special twist on its popular “Feeding Time” program by opening the morning session only to couples age 18 and older, and sending everyone home with a box of specialty chocolates.
“Feeding Time” starts at 8 a.m. with a light breakfast for participants in the Aquarium café, and then gives participants special access to some of their favorite animals by letting them join staff during morning feedings. They’ll feel the vacuuming slurp of rays at the Shark & Ray Touch Pool, and go behind the scenes to feed horseshoe crabs and diamondback terrapins. Above the Aquarium’s 110,000-gallon Ocean Beyond the Sound exhibit, they’ll watch as Aquarium staff feeds the 7-foot sharks prowling just below a railing. Participants can toss in some bonus food for the sharks, as well as for the exhibit’s rays and other fish.
“‘Feeding Time’ is always a special chance to learn about our marine animals – and even interact with some of them – by joining our educators and animal-husbandry staff,” said Aquarium spokesman Dave Sigworth. “The Valentine’s ‘Feeding Time’ is a great idea for someone looking to give their sweetheart something unique – an experience. They get the experience plus a box of chocolates.”
Cost of the “Valentine’s Feeding Time” is $135 per couple ($125 for Aquarium members). Aquarium admission at 10 a.m. is included. The program is limited to 10 couples.
Advance registration is required. Call (203) 852-0700, ext. 2206, or register online at www.maritimeaquarium.org/events