Batten Fellow Madison with Watershed Warriors volunteers during a team session.

Empowering Tomorrow's Environmental Leaders

Last summer, the Aquarium saw a record-breaking number of participants for our summer education program, Watershed Warriors, and a couple weeks ago, the program returned with approximately 45 eager youth volunteers who will gain the knowledge, values, and responsibility needed to conserve our water…

Pelican flying against cloudless sky.

Avian Influenza and Our Biosecurity Protocols

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is a severe form of avian influenza that poses a significant threat to both wildlife and domestic bird species worldwide. The virus primarily affects birds, but can also infect mammals, a phenomenon which has led to documented cases in animal care facilities…

Wedding ceremony outdoors at Virginia Aquarium. Photo Credit: Dragon Photo Studio.

Sustainable Celebrations: Planning a Low-Waste Wedding

From the venue to the clothes to the party favors, there are a lot of elements to think of when planning a wedding. Fortunately, there are just as many opportunities to ensure your big day incorporates your love for the environment alongside your love for your partner. The Virginia Aquarium & M…

Ospreys in nest with an egg and a blue plastic bag next to it.

Deciphering Recycling for America Recycles Day

America Recycles Day is November 15, and as part of our mission to inspire a more sustainable future, we're spreading the word about how to recycle as much plastic as we can to protect the environment. Over 99% of plastics are produced with fossil fuels, but it only takes one plastic bag to endange…

Water Quality Lab technician piping water into vials.

Deep Dive: Water Quality Lab

Water is at the core of our operations, with our animals residing in more than 840,000 gallons of water across both the North and South Buildings, as well as our Darden Marine Animal Conservation Center (DMACC), where Stranding Response operates. From the water temperature to salt, chemical, and mi…

Two clownfish swim through and around bubble anemones.

Perfect Pairings: Symbiosis in the Sea

Like in human societies, great connections can be found between diverse members of the animal kingdom. Symbiotic relationships, or relationships in which two species of animals interact in a mutually beneficial way, abound in the marine environment. Take a look at a few of these unique relationship…

An osprey stands in a nest that has a piece of plastic stuck in the side. Photo Credit: Reese F. Lukei, Jr.

Planet vs. Plastic: Celebrating Earth Day 2024

Osprey Photo Credit: Reese F. Lukei, Jr.  This year’s Earth Day theme is Planet vs. Plastics, highlighting the impact plastic use has on the environment and how to mitigate the impact of plastic waste for a cleaner, healthier world. Plastic is the most common debris found in the oceans. Plastics …

A parent and two children explore the Chesapeake Bay touch pool with a staff member

The Ultimate Guide to Membership

Interested in becoming a Member? We've put together a handy guide with all the special perks and helpful hints you need to make the most of your Membership.