What do Bottle-nosed Dolphins, Humpback Whales and Harbor Seals have in common? They are all marine mammals that can be seen off the New Jersey coast AND they are all subjects of dynamic presentations happening at the Cape May Point Science Center during our inaugural Marine Science Symposium on Friday, May 31. Researchers from the Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center, Stockton University, Briar Cliff High School, Atlantic Cape Community College, and Monmouth University will delve deeper into the habits of and threats to these charismatic creatures that grace our local waters in both oral and poster presentations about their work.
Turtles and Terrapins in Trouble
The Atlantic coast is not only an important area for resident and migrating marine mammals, but it also provides vital habitat for marsh-dwelling Diamondback terrapins and several species of sea turtles. Presentations by The Turtle Island Restoration Network, Monmouth University, The Wetlands Institute, and Atlantic Cape Community College will illuminate the many threats these reptiles face along our shores.
Something Fishy is Going on!
Not into air breathers? The Marine Science Symposium has plenty for lovers of other marine life too. Come learn more about local fish, horseshoe crabs, sea stars and more with presentations by scientists from the American Littoral Society, Stockton University, and AstraZeneca. Adjunct professor, Michael Academia from Virginia Peninsula Community College and fisheries reporter Jack Darrell from Alaska radio station KRBD-FM will be keynote speakers about the relationship between menhaden (commonly known as bunker) population dynamics and Osprey success.
Many thanks to our partner The Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center and our co-sponsor, Brian W. Jones, President/CEO of the First National Bank of Elmer