Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation

Did you know that hawksbill turtles are the only species of sea turtle that have overlapping shell plates? 🐢🩵 While other turtle species' scutes (shell plates) all join to form a seamless carapace (top shell), hawksbill turtles' scutes form that distinct "serrated" look. These turtles spend most of their lives in coastal areas, so their sharp, overlapping scutes provide protection from predators and perhaps even help them camouflage! 🙌 If you zoom in, you can see Siriti's overlapping scutes (pictured at her release in 2023)! 🤩

Box bands are one of the most common entanglements seen by our Marine Wildlife Management Programme! 🦭 Our team regularly disentangles Cape fur seals that have been trapped in materials like plastic, nylon, and other pollutants. Box bands, used for commercial packaging, are one of the most frequent suspects. Ayanda Cimani, Wildlife Monitor, removed this box band from a seal using a specially designed cutting tool. 💙

Turtle adoptions are still open! 🐢 We are currently rehabilitating about 230 loggerhead turtle hatchlings at the Turtle Conservation Centre. Each of these precious patients represents a brighter future for their species - our turtle team is dedicated to getting them back on their flippers! ❤️🩹 By adopting one of these turtle hatchlings, you are helping this little turtle regain strength and actively supporting its journey back to its ocean home. 💙 Adopt a turtle: https://lnkd.in/dGTA6F4n

Do you have questions about climate change? Our Climate Action Now course helps you find all the answers you're looking for! 🌍🩵 This engaging (and FULLY SPONSORED) course is ideal for environmentally conscious students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the planet. You'll learn about the science behind climate change, the threats it poses to our environment, ways to mitigate the problem, and delve into the way forward! 🙌 Sign up now: https://lnkd.in/dY6uJNYt

Have you met Nori, the green turtle? 🐢 Nori is undergoing the final phase of rehabilitation with our Turtle Conservation Centre. During this time, the larger space of the I&J Ocean Exhibit serves to reacclimate Nori to what life is like in the ocean. She also receives environmental enrichment and behavioural observations. Soon, Nori will be ready for release back into the ocean! 🩵

Our Marine Wildlife Management Programme team has disentangled 66 Cape fur seals this year! 🦭💙 While we are proud of this achievement, we are mindful of the meaning behind it. 66 seals were found entangled in nylon, rope, plastic, raffia, box bands, and other materials. Thanks to the efforts of our team, we were able to rescue these seals before their entanglements had more dire consequences. 🙌 Remember, if you spot an entangled seal in the V&A Waterfront precinct, please let us know on 021 418 3823 ⛑️

Join the Marine Marvels online course - you and your family can discover the ocean's wonders! 🐟 Learn to identify animals in your local rockpools, understand their adaptations, and appreciate the incredible marine ecosystems! Adults and children over the age of 12 can enjoy Marine Marvels from anywhere in the world! Learn more: https://lnkd.in/dZrPTnmw

Don't miss your chance to apply for our Young Biologist course! 🤩🌊 This fully sponsored course is for Grade 10 learners who are keen to take the first step toward a lifetime of environmental stewardship and exploration! Not only does this course provide a solid foundation of ocean knowledge, but it also incorporates exciting hands-on activities and learning experiences. 📚🩵 Check it out here: https://lnkd.in/d4tTt9CA

This month's Trash Bash is going to be our biggest yet! 💙 In honour of International Coastal Cleanup Day, we're cleaning up Monwabisi Beach on 21 September! The Two Oceans Aquarium and its Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation are dedicated to protecting and preserving our ocean for future generations, which is why we are so passionate about Trash Bash. 🌊 Plastic cannot break down, biodegrade, or become part of the natural system again. Instead, it breaks up infinitely, putting our marine ecosystems in grave danger. Join us in breaking the cycle of pollution and making a positive impact on our ocean! 🙌

Marine Sciences is the subject you've been waiting for! 📚💙 Written by the teaching staff at the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation and approved by Umalusi and the Department of Education, Marine Sciences is an official school subject for Grade 10, 11 and 12 learners who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of the ocean, its workings, and its impact on humans and our planet.🌊🌍 Regardless of whether you want to get into the scientific field or just need a solid foundation for university courses, taking Marine Sciences is an investment in your future! 🙌 Check it out: https://lnkd.in/dPgdMSsF