Maritime Aquarium To Host Valentine's Feeding Time Event

NORWALK, CT — 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 at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk.

On Saturday, 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, according to a release.

“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 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.

Participants will also attend a private seal feeding available only to “Feeding Time” couples.

“‘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,” Aquarium spokesman Dave Sigworth said in a release. “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.”

The 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.

Photo credit: Maritime Aquarium