Guided Beach Walks Show Marine Life Of Brigantine Island

BRIGANTINE, NJ — Just because school's out for the summer doesn't mean that learning has to stop. With the Marine Mammal Stranding Center's new "Ocean Beach Discovery" program, the whole family can get educated about the important marine life at the Jersey Shore.

The program, perfect for those ages five-and-up, takes learners out into nature to discover the natural habitats of marine animals and plants on Brigantine Island and educates the whole family on the importance of caring for the native living creatures of New Jersey beaches, bays and estuaries, according to a news release.

During the 45-minute tour, an educator from MMSC will take participants for a guided walking tour of the beach dunes to teach them about this ecosystem and the birds, mammals and plants that call it home.

At the outdoor mobile classroom, students can get their feet wet as they learn how to identify local invertebrates, fish, reptiles, and other marine life while learning about the biggest threats these creatures face and what to do to help them.

Guests will learn how to handle stranded Diamondback terrapins and Horseshoe crabs, which often need a helping hand, and what to do if a stranded sea turtle or marine mammal is spotted.

Programs include a private family program for up to five people (with an additional fee for extras) or a group program for up to 20 children and four adult chaperones. Programs must be booked and paid for online at least one week in advance.

For more information, visit https://mmsc.org/summer-programs. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center is located at 3625 Atlantic Brigantine Blvd., Brigantine.