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February 25, 2009
When the Oceanarium reopens on May 22, there will be new exhibits and experiences, with increased opportunities for interactions with animals and the furthering of our conservation and education missions.
Introducing the Oceanarium Reimagined.
Posted by Ken Ramirez, animal collections and training
The 2009 Chicago Flower & Garden show returns to Navy Pier on March 7.
Be sure to visit WaterShedd, designed by Shedd Aquarium horticultural manager Christine Nye, in collaboration with Roy Diblik, co-owner of Northwest Perennial Farm. WaterShedd illustrates effective and pleasing ways to compose a xeriscape garden--an environment that requires no or minimal irrigation--using native and non-native plant species.
Continue reading "Shedd at the Chicago Flower & Garden Show" »
February 23, 2009
The National Science Teachers Association recognized educator Jason Crean with a “Making a Difference” award for his development of a high-school-level genetics curriculum. Already holding a master’s degree in education, Jason recently completed the master’s of biology program offered by Western Illinois University and Shedd Aquarium.
Applying what he learned at Shedd and working with Chicago-area zoos, Jason created “Zoo Genetics: Key Aspects of Conservation Biology,” which connects high school students to real-world applications of scientific investigations. Students gain insight into how genetics can be used to manage animal populations, both in the wild and at zoos and aquariums.
February 18, 2009
At Shedd, we have a special relationship with the creatures inhabiting the Earth’s waters. Even the smallest amount of mercury can be deadly to fish – and anything that eats them. In 1996, we took a first step in eliminating mercury through a lighting retrofit. By changing the kind of fluorescent tube lights that we use, we eliminated more than 61 grams of mercury, or the equivalent of 87 thermometers’ worth of the toxic substance, buildingwide. The current tubes that we use, although ecofriendly, still contain trace amounts of mercury, so we dispose of burned-out lights through a company that recycles them within our specifications. Since 2002, we’ve prevented a further 11 thermometers’ worth of mercury from contaminating a landfill or as much as 16 acres of water.
February 16, 2009
Pufferfish have strong, sharp-edged dental plates that continue to grow throughout their lives. These plates are for cutting and crushing hard foods and look remarkably like large, paired upper and lower teeth. This is a critical adaptation for fish that eat hard-shelled invertebrates like crustaceans, molluscs and corals or scrape algae from rocks (in hopes of snacking on the tiny invertebrates that live in the algae). Puffers also pick through and move gravel while exploring sand beds. In the process of all this crunching and scraping, the teeth are kept filed to an optimal length.
February 12, 2009
Maybe you’ve been concerned about the many disposable food containers, plates and utensils you’ve used – and tossed – in the temporary café in our foyer, especially in light of Shedd’s commitment to green practices. Here’s the scoop: They’re all getting recycled or composted.
The Oceanarium renovation includes the facilities for our food service, which is operated by Sodexo. Right now we have limited kitchen space – and no room for an industrial-sized dishwasher. We know that our guests still need to rest and refuel, so we offer bottled beverages and healthy packaged and fast foods in our temporary café. With our reusable (i.e., dishwasher-safe) table settings in storage until the restaurants reopen, we’ve had to purchase disposable plates and utensils. They are made of 100 percent compostable or recyclable materials. The compostable tableware costs more than the usual plastic stuff, but it is reincarnated as humus for area gardens – including Shedd’s – instead of being preserved for the ages in a landfill. (Even the compostable products won’t biodegrade in a trash heap.)
February 09, 2009
Keep up to date with Shedd's Oceanarium animals and trainers with this Web diary series about all their doings off site during the renovation. In this entry, marine mammal trainer Indya Watts takes us behind the scenes of Minnesota Zoo for a sea otter enrichment exercise.
Posted by Jay Geneske, web editor
February 06, 2009
Here are some exciting facts about Camp Shedd, a new play area for kids.
Since Fall 2008...
...2,050 kids paddled the canoe
...3,200 kids played in the tent
...13,200 guests discovered the turtle pond
Posted by Daryl Rizzo, interpretive programs
February 03, 2009
Eating fish is good for you. Eating the right fish is good for our planet.
Shedd has the information you need to make healthy, delicious and sustainable seafood choices. Our partner Right Bite chefs have created tempting recipes (pasted below), from an easy hors d'oeuvre to a savory main dish to a full dinner.
Posted by Kassia Perpich, conservation and Karen Furnweger, web editor
THE RECIPES
White Fish Diablo with Fennel-Olive Relish
Recipe courtesy of Chef Melissa Graham, Monogramme Events & Catering
Serves 4
This recipe is equally good with or without the relish.
