Washington, DC (November 1, 2008) – Are reptiles slimy? Are all reptiles scaly? Are reptiles dangerous? The National Aquarium staff answered these and many other questions as we highlighted our reptile collection with Reptile Day, held on Saturday, November 1 from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  Story time, crafts, and a special display of reptiles were all part of this slithery annual event held to help visitors learn about reptiles and their important role in their ecosystem. 

A variety of activities were planned for this event including story-time for young children and fun crafts.  The National Aquarium’s animal husbandry and education staff were on hand to answer questions and provide talks throughout the day.  Scheduled talks took place at the alligator exhibit at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and the sharks were fed at 2:00 p.m.

In addition to the reptiles that are on permanent display at The National Aquarium, there was also a display of snakes, turtles and lizards provided by Northern Virginia Reptile Rescue, an organization dedicated to the conservation of reptiles and amphibians worldwide through rescue, rehabilitation, relocation, adoption and public education.

The National Aquarium is the oldest continually operated public aquarium in the country. The facility recently underwent an “extreme makeover” thanks to a new partnership with the National Aquarium in Baltimore and $1.5 million in grants from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  After large-scale improvements to the facility the National Aquarium in Washington DC is now a first rate attraction for visiting tourists or longtime locals.

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