New 'Shark & Ray' Program Coming To South Jersey Aquarium

CAMDEN, NJ — Adventure Aquarium is rolling out a brand new "Shark & Ray Summer" program from July 13 through August 16.

For the first time ever, guests will be able to get a behind-the-scenes look at feedings for both creatures, along with enjoying other exhibits, experiences, and talks at the site of the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast.

The new offering also highlights the debut in May of the five Spotted Eagle Rays to the Ocean Realm area of the facility.

"We hope that visitors leave Shark & Ray Summer with a better understanding of these incredible animals," Melissa Patterson, Adventure Aquarium Events Manager, told Patch. "Sharks and stingrays often get a bad reputation in mass media...These animals are vital to the health of the ocean and our planet, and we should all help to protect them."

Visitors will learn how both species interact and about the ways that everyday people can help protect them from extinction.

Sharks and Rays are both of the subclass "elasmobranchii," categorized by the physical characteristics of a cartilaginous skeleton and possession of gill slits.

One of the new additions coming to "Adventure" in this new program is the Shark & Ray Lab. This interactive station allows guests to get hands-on with real biofacts, a mock shark exam stretcher, and water-quality testing.

Families with small kids will also be able to enjoy puppet shows, dance parties, and photo opportunities.

Adults are invited to take part in the first-ever "Sunset with the Sharks" event on July 24. The 21-and-over gathering will give an after-hours stroll through different aspects of the "Shark & Ray Summer" exhibit with the backing of the Philadelphia skyline.

Tickets for all "Shark & Ray Summer" events are available on the Adventure Aquarium website.

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