Shark Summer Returns to Birch Aquarium At Scripps Institution of Oceanography

SAN DIEGO, CA — Shark Summer returns to the Birch Aquarium starting Saturday, allowing guests to interact with sharks and rays while learning about the vital role they play in the ecosystem.

The Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego will offer the event through Aug. 10, hosting shark exploration stations, shark feedings, Sharks and Rays 101 talks and more throughout the month.

Centering around the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Shark and Ray Awareness Day on July 14, Shark Summer spotlights Birch Aquarium's partnership with AZA SAFE Shark and Ray. The SAFE Shark and Ray program is a collaborative effort by more than 60 organizations nationwide to work together to save the more than 1,200 species of sharks and rays worldwide from extinction, a statement from the aquarium reads.

"Birch Aquarium is teaming up with the AZA SAFE Shark and Ray program to make a positive impact on shark and ray conservation," said aquarist Brent Fish. "We're highlighting this unique and diverse group of animals to raise awareness of how important they are and the threats they face."

Every Thursday throughout the event, the aquarium will host Shark Summer Sunsets, featuring a place to learn about sharks and enjoy the views from Tide Pool Plaza and Blue Beach.

During Shark Summer, proceeds collected in the donation box in the aquarium's Galleria benefit the Association of Zoos and Aquariums SAFE Sharks and Rays program.

All activities are included with the cost of general admission. Through Shark Summer, the aquarium will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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