Though a little too busy for me, the second day at the Monterey bay aquarium was quite an experience, instead of worrying about getting around to all o the different exhibits and learning about some of the ocean life there, I was able to again visit the locations that I wanted to see again and watch other people as they interacted with that exhibit for the first time, or children getting excited about something they were able to once again see.
With a change in the weather today the tanks that received their light from the sun were much better lite allowing many to better see the color of the fish, and more activity from the fish responding to the increased levels of light. The balconies across the sea side of the aquarium were also much more heavily frequented today by everyone, glad to have a place somewhat sheltered from the wind to look across the sun filled bay with birds and a couple of boats to attract interest.
The Big Aquarium at Monterey offers the ability to see some of the ocean life that is in the open water, and how they interact with the other fish belonging to that location. Rays, Sharks, Ocean Sun Fish, barracudas, and different kinds of tuna, all were found in this tank, all taking different positions in the tank, with a school of mackerel amongst them all. The most exciting fish in the exhibit for the youngsters in the room was the Hammerhead Shark, who’s trips across the aquarium glass was infrequent but brought from the young boy shouts of awe.
Near the big tank was the Jelly Fish exhibit, though this exhibit doesn’t change much on a day to day basis, it was nice to have the correct photo equipment to photograph these creatures. Featured with a blue back ground and a pale pink light the jelly fish stood out wonderfully for photographs. The jelly fish’s smooth movement very calming and almost hypnotic to watch I found myself taking many pictures, and just standing and watching until I had completely lost track of time.
Today, at least initially, the Sea Otters were much more relaxed at the top of the tank, sleeping and preening themselves, though this wasn’t as exciting for the youngsters looking for something fast moving or dangerous to look at, it was exciting for me. I have many times photographed wild Otter with their pup’s in the Morro Bay and found it exciting to see the Otter doing what I have often seen.
Opening on April 9th 2009 the Monterey Bay Aquarium will be host to a Sea Horse exhibit. Providing yet another small attraction for tourists and youngsters alike, another learning opportunity for everyone.
