People on Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head watch as waves generated by Hurricane Erin crash into the concrete structure that’s part of the North Carolina Aquariums system. The storm’s center was about 260 miles east of Cape Hatteras at midday Thursday and moving out to sea, but hurricane-force winds extended outward up to 105 miles and tropical-storm-force winds extended up to 320 miles from the sprawling but weakening storm’s eye. Life-threatening surf and rip current conditions will likely continue as storm surge and flood risks subside. The pier’s website provides information on current conditions and live webcam views.
aquariums
Pine Knoll Shores aquarium offers special summer programs
The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores has two new special events set for August, as well as its usual bevy of weekly programming.
Tales from the dunes: Butterflies in science, sentiment
NC State and North Carolina Aquarium researchers have traipsed across sand to study the crystal skipper, a butterfly known for its white speckled wings that can only be found in the Bogue Banks area.
Roanoke aquarium plans World Sea Turtle Day festivities
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island has concluded a “record-breaking” cold-stunning season and will recognize the endangered animal Monday, June 16, for both World Sea Turtle Day and its rehabilitation center’s 11th anniversary.
Aquarium’s comic-style gallery draws eyes to conservation
The N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores opened Friday a newly revamped gallery that uses vibrant panels, colorful sculptures and interactive displays to illustrate its coral conservation and aquaculture efforts.
Fort Fisher aquarium gears up for ‘2025 Race for the Planet’
The 5K and 1-mile fun run in Kure Beach April 27 will wind along the Atlantic Ocean and through the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s maritime forest.
Endowment to add $7.5 million for Fort Fisher aquarium work
The New Hanover County Community Endowment grant awarded this week to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher will support its $56 million renovation, the details of which are to be announced this summer.
Roanoke Island aquarium to host food drive in February
Nonperishable, unexpired food items may be dropped off at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island throughout February to help a local food pantry.
NC Aquariums to close Jan. 27-31 for deep clean, upkeep
North Carolina Aquariums at Roanoke Island, Pine Knoll Shores and Fort Fisher will close to the public the last week of January to tackle projects.
NC Aquariums reduce admission for MLK Jr. Day
Aquariums are honoring King’s life and legacy Jan. 20 by providing visitors the reduced admission to enjoy the immersive experience while engaging with staff who are passionate about conservation, in keeping with the civil rights leader’s environmental ethic.
Roanoke aquarium cares for 576 cold-stunned sea turtles
Of the nearly 600 cold-stunned sea turtles brought to the N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island earlier this month, as of Friday, 399 have been warmed up and released.
Fort Fisher aquarium gets award for otter marketing campaign
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher was recognized for its “Whole Lotta Otta” marketing campaign by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher to embark on ‘Spooky Seas’
The facility just south of Kure Beach will feature Halloween-themed enrichment Oct. 19-Nov. 1 for both critters and visitors.
Jennette’s Pier makes switch to curb light pollution
The Nags Head facility’s transition to more wildlife-friendly amber lighting is less disruptive to insects, bats, birds, and, most importantly along the oceanfront, sea turtles.
Suds for Sharks to highlight conservation, research
All donations from the July 10 fundraiser in Atlantic Beach will go to the North Carolina Aquarium Conservation Action Committee’s shark conservation projects.
Pine Knoll Shores aquarium reopens marsh boardwalk
Closed in January for renovations, the facility on Bogue Sound has reopened its marsh boardwalk to visitors.
