Mystic Aquarium

Sea Research Foundation’s Mystic Aquarium now offers a seven-hour Trainer for a Day program where participants find out firsthand what it’s like to be a marine animal trainer. Perfect for animal lovers and students interested in pursuing a related career, the new program includes hands-on animal interactions and side-by-side learning experiences with Mystic Aquarium’s beluga whale, California sea lion and African penguin trainers.

Trainer for a Day begins with a lively presentation about Mystic Aquarium’s animals, conservation issues, and the importance of high-level animal care, training, education and research. Participants then tour the Roger Tory Peterson Penguin Pavilion, help prepare a morning meal of fish and sit among the African penguin colony as they eat. From there, they sit side-by-side with a beluga trainer in the Arctic Coast habitat for a hands-on feeding and training session. Finally, participants get to know the Foxwoods Marine Theater California sea lions through a live show and private training demonstration.

A catered, white tablecloth luncheon with a special guest is included and the day ends with a personalized slideshow and Q&A recap.

The program is limited to two participants and takes place Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. The program is open to those ages 13 and up and those under 16 must be accompanied by a paying, participating adult. Program cost is $375 ($350 for aquarium members) and includes aquarium admission, lunch and one 8x10 matted photo. A DVD of the personalized slideshow may be purchased separately for $80.

Reservations are required and must be booked 48 hours in advance. Call 860.572.5955 ext. 520 for more information.

Mystic Aquarium also offers Beluga Encounter, Whales Up Close and Penguin Encounter programs. Mystic Aquarium and its parent organization, Sea Research Foundation, are global leaders in African penguin, beluga whale and California sea lion care, training, education and research. Participation in Trainer for a Day supports these efforts and ultimately contributes to the long-term survival of each species.

Published on August 23, 2012