Check out how scientists do their stuff, capture marine specimens and learn about the watery world of sea creatures aboard the 93-foot fishing vessel, First String on Saturday June 11, 2011.
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium (CMA) is sponsoring “Catalina Above and Below,” a scientific observation and collecting expedition to Catalina Island. While the trip across the San Pedro Channel offers sightings of marine bird and animals, this trip provides some additional up close experiences with local creatures.
For example, prior to arrival to the Island, everyone will assist in pulling up special traps to capture and then inspect the rarely seen hagfish. After reaching the island, aquarium divers will retrieve fish traps and hand collect an assortment of reef specimen which will be displayed, interpreted and discussed.
Later all participants will go ashore at Catalina’s Isthmus to explore that part of the island, seldom visited by tourists.
And finally, after visiting the island, you’ll get to witness scientists doing a controlled shark baiting that will hopefully lure these majestic and often misunderstood animals to the surface for close-up observation.
Space is limited. Cost for the trip is $95 per person ($85 Friends member). For reservations, call (310) 548-7562 or visit www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org.
