Sea to Shore Alliance's mission to protect marine life aligns with CMA's mission and will reinforce our conservation efforts. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a working hospital for sick and injured marine life dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sick and injured. CMA works with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and other agencies within the stranding networks to respond to sick and injured sea turtles.ĬMA recently established a formal affiliation with Sea to Shore Alliance which through research, education, and conservation, works to improve the health and productivity of coastal environments for the endangered species and human livelihoods that depend on them. The CMA Sea Turtle team works closely with staff, interns, volunteers and the community to support conservation efforts to save threatened and endangered sea turtles. The CMA Rescue Team works collaboratively with other Stranding Network Members, including: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Marine Mammal Pathobiology Laboratory (MMPL), Mote Marine Laboratory, University of Florida, Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, SeaWorld Orlando, and FWC Southwest Field Station among others. Staff and volunteers are responsible for providing care and enrichment for the animals as directed by biologists and veterinary staff. By teaching children and adults the importance of conservation, ecology and stewardship, we believe they will apply this knowledge to make sustainable choices and take an active part in preserving our marine environment.ĬMA staff biologists, veterinarians and volunteers work closely together to manage the care of the rescued resident and rehabilitating animals here at CMA. We strive to develop an understanding for the irreplaceable value of all life in our world’s ocean. By inviting guests to see firsthand how we care for these animals, we create powerful experiences that can change lives and make a difference. (WFLA) While the staff at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is planning for a celebration of life for Winter the Dolphin, executives at the facility are looking ahead to what’s.

People relate to the strength it takes to overcome obstacles, as brave animals exemplify that every day. We educate and inspire millions of people around the world through this work and through films like Dolphin Tale and Dolphin Tale 2. If the animal is unable to be released due to the severity of its injuries or its young age, it becomes a permanent member of the CMA family and lives here to serve as an ambassador for its species and to help promote environmental conservation. CMA staff and volunteers work each day to rescue marine life and provide the most advanced and effective care to maximize the opportunity to return sick or injured animals to their natural habitat.ĬMA staff biologists, veterinarians and volunteers develop an individualized rehabilitation plan specific to each rescued animal based on its injury or illness, with the goal of returning it to their natural home.

Clearwater marine aquarium hours