The New England Aquarium is one of the top visitor attractions in Boston. In fact, over 1.3 million people visit the aquarium each year!
The New England Aquarium is known for their commitment to marine animal conservation and scientific research, making it a great place to take a day trip. The aquarium is filled with an incredible variety of animals ranging from African Penguins to Giant Pacific Octopi. Let’s learn about the animals of The New England Aquarium. This way you’ll have more information about them before you visit!
Did you know you can visit the New England Aquarium with Wade Tours? Book your tickets here.
These small penguins are from Africa’s coastal waters from Namibia through South Africa. On average, they are 23 inches tall and weigh 5-9 pounds. African penguins nest in burrows, where they lay two eggs that are incubated by both makes and females for 38-40 days. The African Penguin is endangered and in danger of extinction due to overfishing, climate change and pollution.
Swimming up to 25 miles per hour, California sea lions are faster than any other seal or sea lion! Their average lifespan is 18-25 years. Male sea lions can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh around 1,000 pounds. You’ll often find California Sea Lions in waters over slope zones, or in coastal areas such as bays, harbors or rivers from the Gulf of Alaska to Baja California. They are some of the most interesting animals at the New England Aquarium!
Did you know Green Sea Turtles can live up to 100 years old? They live in tropical to temperate waters around the world. The older turtles often live in warmer water, where younger ones often spend their summers in the waters of New England. Green Turtles are endangered, with rising temperatures and sea levels having an unfortunate effect on their habitat.
Giant Pacific Octopus live in caves and kelp forests in the Northern Pacific Ocean. Just like their name suggests, they are GIANT. They can stretch out to 120 feet long and weigh up to 150 pounds. They can even move objects up to 700 pounds! Their diet consists of fish, shrimp, crabs, scallops, clams and other shellfish. They are intelligent, have excellent eyesight, and can even change color. Many say they are the most interesting animals at the New England Aquarium!
Traveling in large groups or schools, these rays are found near the coastline of New England to the south Caribbean, South America, Western Africa and the Cape Verde islands. Feeding on oysters, clams, snails and crabs, they can grow up to 48 inches wide. Cownose Rays are one of 42 species in the Myliobatidae family, including Manta Rays. They can live up to 18 years and are large enough to fight off most predators.
The balloonfish live in tropical waters around the world and measure anywhere from 8-20 inches long. Although they aren’t known to be great swimmers, they have an ability to puff up and raise spines along their body when attacked. When they puff, their body becomes three times their normal size!
Now that you’ve had the chance to learn all about the animals of the New England Aquarium, you’ll be able to get the most out of your visit. Book your trip with Wade Tours and we will take care of everything from pick ups, entry costs, and drop offs. Let us make this day trip easy and educational for you. All you’ll have to focus on is a fun adventure with some of the world’s most incredible animals!
