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Moody Gardens Research Programs Part 2

January 30, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Garibaldi Fish Swimming Among Kelp

As we mentioned in our earlier blog post, Moody Gardens is dedicated to our mission of supporting plant and animal programs. We are a public, non-profit educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research. We’ve already discussed the Medical Plant Program, the Beneficial Insect Program, and the Coral Propagation Program, but we are also dedicated to our Saving Elkhorn Coral program and our partnership with United States Fish and Wildlife.

Saving Elkhorn Coral

Recently, a Moody Gardens biologist and twenty other U.S. and European scientists embarked on one of the greatest coral conservation efforts ever undertaken. They traveled to Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, to use their knowledge to help save Elkhorn coral. Elkhorn coral is listed on the federal government’s Endangered Species Act, and is also essential for the growth of existing and future coral reefs. Without Elkhorn coral, the reef builder, coral reef, and its inhabitants could be lost. The lost of the coral reef would be immense for a variety of reasons. They serve as storm barriers for the coastline, are a potential source for pharmaceuticals, and support 85% of the tourism in surrounding areas. Moody Gardens is hoping to support the cause through captive coral sexual reproduction and husbandry techniques.

Partnership with United States Fish and Wildlife

When certain animals or live specimens are confiscated from people who possess them illegally, Moody Gardens assumes care responsibilities. Moody Gardens will care for these animals while their cases are pending and handle long-term care by assisting with relocating them to other facilities. Animals included in this partnership include turtles, Panamanian golden frogs, Cuban Amazon parrots, and the Wyoming toad.

Learn more about the many research programs Moody Gardens is involved in by visiting us on your next family weekend getaways in Texas. Exploring the Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid is an opportunity to learn and have a good time.

Moody Gardens Research Programs Part 1

January 29, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Queen Angelfish
There is more going on at Moody Gardens than what visitors get to experience. We are doing tons of important work behind the scenes to pursue our mission of supporting plants and animals. Moody Gardens has teamed up with various universities, medical experts, and professionals to create research programs for medical research and other conservation efforts.

Medical Plant Program

Through the Medical Plant Program, Dr. E. Arthur Bell and the Moody Gardens Horticultural department have collected and grown vegetation from the rainforest that may be helpful in controlling diseases, such as cancer and AIDS. Plant cuttings are sent to the University of Houston for data research to study certain healing properties.

Beneficial Insect Program

With the unmatched help of Sam Houston State University, the Rainforest Pyramid functions without the use of pesticides. This is made possible by an effort to match insects with certain bacteria to balance nature. The program’s hope is that biological control of insects will one day replace pesticides worldwide.

Coral Propagation Program

Coral reefs have the second-most diverse population of species, second only to the rainforests. Since so many species depend on coral reefs for survival, the conservation of this natural resource is vital. Through our captive coral propagation program, we conserve coral specimens for use in public aquariums to reduce the need for acquiring wild specimens. Moody Gardens is also a part of a research program with John Hopkins University. The results may have significant direct applications in paleontology, biochemistry, and possibly an indirect effect on medial research.

Our Dedication to Saving Animals

January 28, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 2 Comments

saving animals Moody Gardens is dedicated to the care and survival of animals. We go to great lengths to make sure we provide a comfortable home for our animal residents and provide assistance to animals in need.

Moody Gardens has worked with the Marine Stranding Network and other organizations to help rescue injured animals and rehabilitate them. Moody Gardens has helped to provide aid in the recovery and release of marine animals, such as dolphins and turtles, back into the wild.

A permanent home is also provided for animals that may not be able to survive in the wild, as in the case of Porter. Porter was a newborn abandoned harbor seal pup that needed treatment for dehydration and injuries. After the Marine Animal Lifeline nursed him back to health, he did not have the survival and hunting skills necessary to be released back into the wild. He is now a permanent resident of the Aquarium Pyramid’s North Pacific Exhibit.

At the Seahorse Symphony Exhibit in the Aquarium Pyramid, visitors are reminded of the quickly diminishing seahorse population. It’s estimated that each year around 20 million seahorses are taken from the ocean to be used as souvenirs, pets, and for medicine. Project Seahorse is a collaborative international effort that focuses on conservation habitats, educating visitors, and making a difference for the seahorse population.

The efforts of Moody Gardens have been as widespread as South America, where a rescue team helped save a colony of Caribbean Flamingos after their home was attacked by jaguars. Also, the King Penguins at Moody Gardens are a genetically desirable group that have been part of a breeding exchange program with other institutions, helping to ensure their species survival.

Come visit the King Penguins and Porter the seal at the Aquarium Pyramid on your next family weekend getaway in Texas. Don’t forget to stop in and see the variety of animal residents at the Rainforest Pyramid! We look forward to seeing you soon.

Learn about Moody Gardens Scout Programs

January 25, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

BA12199 Boy and Girl Scouts can come for a day of fun and learning at Moody Gardens, and earn badges and merit badges through our Scout Programs.

Each scout workshop includes hands-on activities, a Moody Gardens attraction visit, and a guaranteed good time! While scouts are having fun, they are also meeting most or all of the requirements needed to earn specific badges.

For Cub Scouts, we offer badges for Wolves, Bears, and Webelos. For $100.00, up to ten participants (including chaperones) can participate and earn the following badges:

Wolves: Elective 13, Birds
Bears: Achievement 5, Sharing Your World
Webelos: Naturalist Activity Badge

Each additional participant is $10.00 per person. We also require one chaperone for every five cub scouts, and non-scout children are not permitted to attend the workshop.

Reservations are required and must be made at least two weeks in advance. Call 1-800-582-4673, ext. 4325 or email us at scouts@moodygardens.com for information and reservations.

For Boy Scouts, we offer Merit Badge Day, which gives them the opportunity to finish most of the requirements for a merit badge in just one day.

Upcoming Merit Badge Days at Moody Gardens include:

February 16, 2013 (Register on January 21, 2013)

Environmental Science $25
Communications $25
Oceanography $20
Nature $25

March 23, 2013 (Register on February 18, 2013)

Communications $25
Soil & Water Conservation $20
Mammal Study $20
First Aid $25

April 20, 2013 (Register on March 25, 2013)

Oceanography $20
Environmental Science $25
Nature $25
Bird Study $20

Registration begins at 9 a.m. on the designated days. Call 1-800-582-4673, ext. 4320 or 409-683-4320 to register. Private Merit Badge workshops are available for a minimum of ten scouts, and two weeks’ notice is required. You can also email scouts@moodygardens.com for more information.

Don’t miss out on exploring the Aquarium Pyramid or Rainforest Pyramid while you’re here!

Why 2012 Was the Year of the Bat

January 24, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Bats
Each year, Moody Gardens makes an effort to bring attention to parts of the world and certain animals in need of support. This past year was the Year of the Bat, as declared by the United Nations. Throughout the year, a variety of events were held at Moody Gardens to bring attention to this important animal, which is often overlooked.

Moody Gardens to raised money to donate to Bat Conservation International (BCI). BCI conducts and supports science-based conservation efforts for bats around the world. They work with many other organizations to combine research, education, and direct conservation to maintain bats’ environments and survival far into the future.

One of the first events at Moody Gardens was the Bats Are Doin’ It: A Fundraiser for Animal Lovers. The event was held in February at the Moody Gardens Visitor Center and tickets ranged from $50-$90. Proceeds from ticket sales (including raffles) and donations were donated to Bat Conservation International. The event also brought attention to the ecological importance of bats, such as eating harmful insects and pollinating crops, such as bananas and mangoes. The purpose of the event was not only to raise funds, but also to increase appreciation for the misunderstood species.

A second Year of the Bat event held at Moody Gardens was the Bats for Bats Fundraiser. Starting in October and going on for several weeks, Moody Gardens held online auctions of sports memorabilia. Items such as a Texas Rangers’ Michael Young autographed photo were sold and the proceeds donated to BCI.

Now that 2012, the Year of the Bat, is over, we are looking forward to any future conservation efforts Moody Gardens will be making!

Come visit us on your next family weekend getaways in Texas, and learn more about the animals of the Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid. Be sure book your stay at the Moody Gardens Hotel.

Moody Gardens Teaching Teachers: Educator Programs Part 2

January 23, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

teachingteachers Moody Gardens offers workshops for local educators multiple times a year. Through our workshops, we demonstrate exciting ways to bring the rainforest, oceans, and nature into your classroom.

Through the exploratory workshops, teachers earn credit toward their Continuing Professional Education as established by the State Board of Educator Certification (SBEC). Teachers will also take home curriculum including math, science, and social studies lessons that correlate with TEKS requirements.

Each workshop includes hands-on activities, guided tours through Moody Gardens’ attractions, and take-home curriculum.

Choose between full-day and half-day workshops.

Full Day Workshops: During a full-day workshop, educators will earn six SBEC credit hours. The workshop includes a buffet lunch at the Garden Restaurant, a guided tour of one of the pyramids, and a take home copy of the applicable curriculum and all the related activities. The workshop is from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., with lunch included for $55.

Half-Day Workshops: Half-day workshop participants earn four SBEC credit hours. Participants will also receive a guided tour of one of the pyramids and take home curriculum. However, lunch is not included. The workshop runs from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and costs $40 per person.

Upcoming workshops include:

Flying WILD (Full Day) on February 23, 2013
Frogs/Sharks (Full Day) on March 23, 2013
Marine Debris (Full Day) on April 27, 2013

Pre-registration is required for all educator workshops. For reservations and more information, please call 1-800-582-4673, ext. 4231, or email pswiftbrooks@moodygardens.com.

You can also access our curriculum online by visiting our website.

While you’re here, we hope you enjoy your tour of the Aquarium Pyramid or Rainforest Pyramid. If you’d like to make a weekend out of the visit, the Moody Gardens Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Galveston. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Moody Gardens Teaching Teachers: Educator Programs Part 1

January 22, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

teachers part 1 On February 2, 2013, Moody Gardens will be hosting our 16^th Annual Educator Open House. At the open house, you can learn what Moody Gardens and other Galveston-area attractions have to offer educators and their students.

All educators and school support staff are invited and encouraged to participate in the fun and informational event. You can join us just for the excitement and knowledge, but also have the option to earn up to 4 State Board of Educator Certification (SBEC) hours.

This year, you must pre-register for the event, which you can easily do here.

By registering and participating in the 16^th Annual Educator Open House, you will:

Receive free admission into all Moody Gardens attractions with your school ID
Be entered into a drawing for the chance to win a variety of door prizes, field trips, and workshops
Receive a tote bag and a free box lunch if you are one of the first 1,000 participants
Learn more about the volunteer programs and opportunities at Moody Gardens
Gather free educational materials while they last
Receive activity ideas to use in your own classroom
Learn about other educational programs available from other Galveston-area attractions

If your family members want to join in on they fun, they can purchase a day pass for only $21.00 a person.

Be sure to sign up for our Pyramid Educator Newsletter to receive information and updates on new programs and special educator events. Simply email pswiftbrooks@moodygardens.com to sign up.

When registering, be sure to provide school employment identification. For any more questions, call 409-683-4231 or email at pswiftbrooks@moodygardens.com. We look forward to hearing from you soon and seeing you at the 16^th Annual Educator Open House.

Be sure to check out the Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid during your visit. If you need a place to stay, check out the Moody Gardens Hotel, one of the best places to stay in Galveston.

Why Should You Make Moody Gardens Your Next Family Vacation?

January 18, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

200361162-001 Make your next family vacation a Moody Gardens vacation! At Moody Gardens we have your whole trip covered, from the entertainment, the relaxation, and a place to stay. Our attractions are fun, educational, and appropriate for everyone in the family.

Family Friendly Accommodations

The Moody Gardens Hotel is accommodating for the entire family. We have a great selection of rooms and suites to provide your family with a comfortable place to rest your heads at night. The kids can enjoy the complimentary fun of Kid’s Crew while parents visit the Spa at Moody Gardens for a relaxing couple’s massage!

Dining Options

When you stay at the Moody Gardens Hotel, your kids get to eat free at the Terrace Restaurant, which has the best shrimp gumbo in Galveston. For a more formal dinner experience, taste the famous entrées at Shearn’s Restaurant prepared by Galveston’s most-celebrated chef, Executive Chef Urs Schmid.

Fun and Educational

The attractions at Moody Gardens are not only tons of fun, but they are also educational. When venturing through the Aquarium Pyramid, you and your family learn all about the penguins, seals, and other sea creatures. You can even get a personal experience with the penguins through the Penguin Encounter program. Other educational yet exciting attractions are the Rainforest Pyramid and Discovery Museum.

Location

Moody Gardens is located on Galveston Island, one of the more-popular vacation destinations in Texas. Situated right on the Gulf of Mexico, when you stay at Moody Gardens Hotel, you experience all that Galveston has to offer.

Start planning your next family weekend getaway in Texas at Moody Gardens! Once you plan your vacation with us, you’ll realize why we are one of the best places to stay in Galveston. You look forward to seeing you soon!

Moody Gardens Special People’s Ball 2013

January 17, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

146720310 Each year Moody Gardens loves to throw a Mardi Gras ball! However, our ball is a little different from the popular Mardi Gras celebrations around the world. The Moody Gardens Special People’s Ball is a unique celebration for people with special needs, their caregivers, and their immediate family. The Moody Gardens Mardi Gras ball provides the opportunity for people with disabilities to be a part of the Mardi Gras celebrations in a safe and exciting environment.

The 27^th Annual Mardi Gras Ball for Special People will be on Sunday, February 10, 2013. This fun-packed event includes activities such as:

Arts and crafts
Face painting
Costume characters
Mardi Gras beads
Costume and dance contests
Food and refreshments
Pictures
Live music

For this year’s ball, Moody Gardens will be having the hit cover band Space Monkey entertaining the crowd! Space Monkey offers a wide range of music so there is something for everyone to enjoy. This year we will also have Gazer the Star and Cosmo the Moon from the Space Center Houston joining the festivities.

The Caring Clowns from the University of Texas Medical Branch will be at the ball making balloon hats and animals, and Ronald McDonald will make an appearance!

Admission is free for attendees with special needs, their immediate family, and caregivers. However, reservations are required and can be made here.

If you are looking into attending with a group home, please note that attendees will need to wear an ID with their name and organization.

We are also looking for wonderful and caring people to help us out with this great event! For more information on volunteering for the Mardi Gras Ball for Special People, contact us at 469-683-4108 or volunteers@moodygardens.com.

If you are joining us for the ball from out of town, be sure to check out the Moody Gardens Hotel for one of the best places to stay in Galveston. Don’t forget to explore the Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid while you’re visiting!

Moody Gardens Offers Year-Round Fun

January 16, 2013 / Moody Gardens / 0 Comments

Screen Shot 2013-01-09 at 4.57.21 PM At Moody Gardens, we are not a seasonal attraction that is only open certain times of the year. The fun here is nonstop and year-round! While we do have seasonal attractions, such as Palm Beach and Festival of Lights, we also have our popular Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid, and tons of events each month.

If you do happen to come during the winter or summer seasons, you can’t miss the Festival of Lights or Palm Beach. The Festival of Lights includes over 1 million holiday lights, and is the largest holiday lights festival in the area! Palm Beach opens in the summer, providing guests and island residents with Galveston’s only white sand beach!

Year- round attractions you can’t miss include:

Aquarium Pyramid
Penguin Encounter
Rainforest Pyramid
Discovery Museum
Colonel Paddlewheel Boat

Moody Gardens also offers three different theaters that provide unique cinematic experiences. Catch your next film at the Moody Gardens 3D Theater, Ridefilm Theater, or the 4D Special FX Theater. Each theatre provides a different kind of experience, from a regular 3D viewing to a ride featuring a 180-degree wraparound screen!

Be sure to stay up to date with our Calendar of Events. Each month we have Birding 101 and Birding 201. These free classes are designed to teach visitors about the variety of bird life living on Galveston Island. The classes are presented by Moody Gardens and Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council and available twice a month.

We also offer Pyramid Camp for kids each month, with a variety of different themes. Sign your kids up for Pyramid Kids Camp: Catch Me If You Can in February or Pyramid Kids Camp: Primate Palooza in April!

Learn more about the fun at Moody Gardens by exploring our website.

If you’re looking for family weekend getaways in Texas, book your next trip at the Moody Gardens Hotel. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Moody Gardens