Featuring staff from the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary
A retractable banner displays flora and fauna from the Flower Garden Banks and a FGBNMS staff member chats with a group of people at a booth display instead the Moody Gardens Aquarium Pyramid. Photos by Jennifer Lamm.
This Saturday, March 8, the public is welcome to join us at the Moody Gardens Aquarium Pyramid. Personnel from the FGBNMS will be discussing the corals that live off the Gulf Coast of Texas and Louisiana as well as leading a hands-on activity. The program will be located on the lower level of the aquarium in front of the Coral Rescue Lab, where corals from the FGBNMS are housed.
Staff from Moody Gardens and NOAA on the surface above the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary.
Breathing gear display for underwater operations as part of a dive presentation at Moody Gardens. Photo by Kerry M. Toorcana
The program was first started in October of 2024, which has highlighted topics such as sanctuary corals, invasive lionfish, dive gear, mooring buoys, and have even celebrated the sanctuary’s 33rd birthday. Interactive activities have given visitors the opportunity to learn more about the sanctuary in a way that enhances their overall visit.
You can follow the activities at the Flower Garden Banks via social media on Facebook @FGBNMS or Instagram @flowergardnbanksnms.
Join Us for a Special Presentation featuring Guest Speaker, Lola Crassard!
An Agami Heron perched on a branch at the Pacuare Reserve.
Mark your calendars for a free special event at the MG 3D Theater! Join us on Friday, March 14, at 7:00 PM or Saturday, March 15, at 9:30 AM for a guest speaker presentation by Lola Crassard, Wildlife Monitoring Technician biologist at the Pacuare Reserve. Guests may attend one or both sessions, but advance registration is required due to limited seating—early reservations are highly recommended.
In 2025, Moody Gardens committed to a three-year partnership with Ecology Project International (EPI), which manages the Pacuare Reserve in Costa Rica. As part of our commitment, we are providing funding through the Moody Gardens Conservation Fund to aid in studies on the populations of the Agami heron and sea turtles. This funding will support the construction of a bird blind and a sea turtle hatchery.
About Pacuare Reserve
The Pacuare Reserve in Costa Rica
The Pacuare Reserve is the only known Agami Heron nesting site along the Costa Rican Caribbean, between Southern Mexico and Northern Colombia. The reserve also provides critical nesting sites for leatherback, green and hawksbill sea turtles. Research conducted here plays a crucial role in shaping conservation strategies and informing decisions by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
About Lola Crassard
Lola Crassard at Pacuare Reserve
Lola Crassard is a dedicated wildlife biologist specializing in ecological research, wildlife monitoring, and environmental education. At the Pacuare Reserve, she studies felines, large mammals, and primates through camera trap monitoring and transect sampling, while also researching Agami Heron nesting populations.
Her previous experience includes behavioral research and enrichment program development for captive animals at Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center, as well as biodiversity research in Peru’s Tambopata National Reserve. She holds a Biology and Ecology degree from Université de Montpellier and is fluent in English, Spanish, and French.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation from an expert in the field. Whether you’re passionate about birds, biodiversity, or conservation efforts, this presentation promises to be both informative and inspiring!
Animals predicting the Super Bowl champ has become a tradition over the last 15 years at Moody Gardens. This year, two Giant African Millipedes weighed in with their prediction… but will they be correct?
Who will win between the Chiefs and Eagles? Watch the video to find out!
In a specially built stadium, the Giant African Millipedes took part in a race down the 100-yard field (more like inches) to claim ultimate glory. The entire event was commentated by Moody Gardens announcer “Skip Thompson,” better known as Guest Services Manager, Tim Raeke. And spoiler alert, a famous popstar and popular cartoon character make surprise cameos.
Some facts about Giant African Millipedes:
Usually, dark brown or black in color
Range from 4 to 12 inches in length
Have about 300 to 400 legs
Have weak jaws made for munching on decaying plant matter
Cannot bite humans
If attacked by a predator, they can coil into a tight ball or secrete a foul-smelling, bitter fluid
Some previous animal predictions for the Super Bowl were made by Giant Pacific Octopus, Komodo Dragon, Cownose Stingrays, Red-footed Tortoise, Saki Monkeys, and a Harbor Seal.
A dark, segmented, multi-legged Giant African Millipede (Archispirostreptus gigas) is curled up against a rock in a display enclosure.
If you’re interested in these multi-legged arthropods, step into the heart of the Rainforest Pyramid and encounter a fascinating world of other multi-legged marvels! From Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches and Walking Sticks to Tarantulas and Scorpions. Wander through lush, tropical trails surrounded by over 1,700 exotic plants and animals as you explore the vibrant ecosystems of Asia, the Americas, and Africa—all within a breathtaking, fully enclosed glass sanctuary.
The newest exhibition coming to the Moody Gardens Discovery Museum this May will take visitors on an eye-opening journey under the skin. BODY WORLDS RX offers visitors the unique opportunity to dive deep and explore the intricate biology and physiology of human health and the dramatic effects of disease through a journey into the human body.
From organs to muscles to the nervous system and skeletal structures, BODY WORLDS RX gives an unprecedented look inside the world’s most sophisticated mechanism: the human body.
Created by anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens, inventor of Plastination, and Dr. Angelina Whalley, curator of the trailblazing BODY WORLDS exhibitions, the exhibit features real human specimens preserved through Plastination, a technique that removes fluids from the body and replaces them with hardened plastics.
The displayed specimens show impressive comparisons and contrasts between healthy bodies and organs and those stricken with disease. The exhibit was designed to explore the intricate biology and physiology of human health and the dramatic effects of contemporary diseases, including back pain, arthritis, cancer, obesity, heart infarction, dementia, and more. It will inspire audiences to embrace preventive healthcare through an informative and entertaining presentation of the latest research on top health issues.
Tickets to the Discovery Museum provide admission to BODY WORLDS RX and are $20 for adults, $17 for seniors 65 and up, and for children 4-12. Visitors may also take advantage of a One-Day Value pass, which gives admission to the Aquarium and Rainforest Pyramids, Discovery Museum, Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, MG 3D, 4D Special FX, and Audience Recognition Theater for $80 per adult and $70 for children and seniors.
For more information about Moody Gardens, call 409-744-4673 or visit www.moodygardens.org
Get in on the Action with this Race Day Spectator’s Guide
GALVESTON, TEXAS – APRIL 02: Deborah Eckhouse celebrates as she crosses the finish line as the first female age group athelete at IRONMAN 70.3 Texas on April 02, 2023 in Galveston, Texas. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for IRONMAN)
Attention IRONMAN fans, on Sunday, April 7 the IRONMAN 70.3 Texas triathlon race kicks off at Moody Gardens starting at 6:45am. The race is split into three portions: swimming, biking, and running. Spectators are welcome to witness the event and cheer on the participants from the sidelines as they make their way to the finish. To see the race route you can click here or view the maps provided below.
IRONMAN 70.3 Swim Phase
At 6:45am, the action kicks off with swimmers diving into the waters near Palm Beach for a thrilling 1.2-mile race before coming ashore near the Colonel Paddlewheel dock.
Map provided by IRONMAN Group
IRONMAN 70.3 Biking Phase
Next up is a 56-mile bike race, weaving through the scenic southwest corner of Galveston and crossing the San Luis Pass, before circling back towards Moody Gardens.
Map provided by IRONMAN Group
IRONMAN 70.3 Run Phase
The adrenaline-fueled event concludes with a 13.1-mile run, beginning and ending at the West Lot, winding through the lush grounds of Moody Gardens with a brief stretch off the property before returning to the finish line.
Map provided by IRONMAN Group
The race is expected to last several hours, ending around 2pm Sunday, April 7. For visitors to Moody Gardens, please be aware that there may be considerable traffic in the area and some routes may not be accessible while the race is taking place.
Be sure to visit https://www.ironman.com/im703-texas for detailed race information including routes and times if you want to find the best spot to watch the action.
Good Luck to all the participants at IRONMAN 70.3 Texas!
“Congratulations to the staff at Moody Gardens for achieving the world’s ‘gold standard’ for the zoological and aquarium profession,” said Dan Ashe, AZA’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “AZA’s standards continually evolve to reflect best practices in animal care and wellbeing, veterinary care, conservation, scientific advancement, and safety and security, among other things. With this assurance, the public can trust that the animals at Moody Gardens receive the highest level of care and wellbeing, and there is a deep commitment to their conservation in the wild.”
Moody Gardens Biologist Daniel chats with Easter Brunch visitors about skinks.
AZA accreditation entails a detailed application and rigorous on-site inspections by independent zoological experts. These inspections cover various aspects such as animal welfare, veterinary care, safety protocols, educational programs, conservation efforts, financial stability, and guest services.
A thorough review ensures that each facility has met and will continue to meet ever-rising standards. As a condition of association membership, AZA facilities must complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years.
John Zendt, President and CEO of Moody Gardens, states,
“This marks the 28th year of continuous AZA accreditation for Moody Gardens. Our dedicated team has consistently worked to maintain the standards set forth by the AZA. We are committed to giving to best care possible, while also fulfilling our mission to educate and engage the public.”
There are 236 AZA-accredited institutions and 15 AZA-accredited related facility members throughout the U.S. and 12 other countries. For a complete list of accredited AZA facilities, please visit https://www.aza.org/current-accreditation-list.
Happening March 29th to March 31st in The Gardens Restaurant and the Frances Anne Moody Ballroom
“Hare Ye, Hare Ye!! Easter Brunch and Buffet at Moody Gardens.”
Moody Gardens is excited to announce a lineup of festive activities for the upcoming Easter weekend. Planned events include Breakfast with a Bunny, an Easter Buffet, an expansive Easter Brunch, and a themed Hotel Package fun for the family.
Lasting memories can be made at Moody Gardens Hotel with a family-friendly, Easter-themed Hotel Package that includes a one-night stay, two Easter baskets, and a fun family Easter scavenger hunt.
To See Brunch and Buffet Packages & Reservations:Click Here
French Toast dusted with sugar available in The Gardens Restaurant
Moody Gardens Visitor Center
Guests are invited to begin their Easter celebration by having Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, available beginning Friday, March 29 at 10:00 a.m. or Saturday, March 30. Seating options on Saturday are 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. Guests can indulge in a delectable breakfast buffet at The Garden Restaurant inside the Visitors Center, featuring a variety of mouthwatering dishes such as eggs, bacon, fruit, yogurt, and a sweet affair of French toast dusted with sugar, croissants, Belgian waffles, and more. The event also includes a souvenir photo, an Easter Bunny meet and greet, a Moody Gardens animal presentation, and a train ride. Tickets are priced at $42 for adults and $28 for children aged 2-12.
Easter Buffet in The Gardens Restaurant
On Easter Sunday, March 31st, visitors can don their best Easter attire and head to Moody Gardens for brunch. Guests will have two delicious dining options. The Garden Restaurant located in the Moody Gardens Visitor Center, will offer a delicious Easter Buffet from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Buffet options include a selection of cold salads, chef-carved Smoked Ham and Texas Rope Sausage, a Pasta Station, Seafood options, and variety of delectable desserts. Prices for the Easter Buffet are $50 for adults, $40 for seniors, and $30 for children aged 4-12.
The Frances Anne Moody Ballroom
Guests may also enjoy an elevated and expansive Easter Brunch in the Frances Anne Moody Ballroom at the Moody Gardens Hotel. A menu crafted by Chef Bobby Ross includes an assortment of indulgent breakfast selections which include homemade baked croissants and pastries, made-to-order omelets, and other breakfast favorites. Additionally, guests may feast on a variety of savory salads, seafood, and entrée options. Menu offerings that include Braised Leg of Lamb with Mint Jus, Roasted Prime Rib, or Seared Red Fish in Citrus Butter, will please any foodies’ pallet.
Easter Brunch in the Frances Anne Moody Ballroom
Seating times for the Easter Brunch will be between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets for the Easter Brunch are $90 for adults, $80 for seniors, and $40 for children aged 4-12. A full menu for the Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, Easter Buffet, and Easter Brunch can be found at www.moodygardens.com/easterwhen purchasing event tickets.
Moody Gardens 3D Theater
Guests are also invited to watch the movie, Jerusalem 3D which will be available during the Easter Weekend as a special showing in the Moody Gardens 3D theater. Check out the trailer below for details.
Embark on a journey through one of the most cherished cities globally, understanding its sanctity to three predominant religions through the tales of diverse families residing in Jerusalem. Accompanied by eminent archaeologist Dr. Jodi Magness, delve into the city’s profound mysteries, gaining unparalleled access to the sacred sites and witnessing the rarely seen aerial vistas of the Old City. Narrated by Benedict Cumberbatch
The Spring 2024 Island Soul Visitor’s Guide featuring “Sustainable Tourism.”
Find out more about the Moody Gardens Conservation Fund, Coral Reef Lab, Animal Encounters and ongoing conservation efforts
In this Spring “Sustainable Tourism” issue of Galveston’s ‘Island Soul’ magazine produced by Visit Galveston, the tourist guide takes a deeper look at the ongoing environmental and conservation efforts taking place on the island. In this edition, you’ll discover special coverage spotlighting Moody Gardens’ role in sustainable environmental practices.
At Moody Gardens, conservation and research form a cornerstone of our mission, driving our efforts to educate the public about nature, wildlife, and the environment while serving as a focal point for all our activities. These efforts include the establishment of the Conservation Fund[PDF] which is maintained through Penguin & Otter Encounters; the Penguin, and Seal Experience; along with selling prints of penguin art.
To learn more, download a free PDF copy of ‘Island Soul’ via the link below:
This issue of ‘Island Soul’ written by Crai S. Bower (Instagram: @travelcrais & X / Twitter: @craisbower) and provided by VisitGalveston.com
“Reflections on Isolation and Resilience in Nature”
The North American Cattle Tyrant in downtown Corpus Christi Photo credit: Greg Whittaker
It was a strange rare bird chase as I walked a 6-block area in downtown Corpus Christi with binoculars and camera last Friday. Circling back towards the corner of North Chaparral and Lawrence, I saw it! A medium sized bird, gray on top, yellow below, catching bugs off the windows of a building and hopping on the sidewalk just as most previous eBird pictures and reports reflected.
I took several pictures and walked back to the pizza joint to meet the other three non-birdnerds visiting the coastal bend on this long weekend camping trip. I was beaming as I showed the grainy pictures on my cell phone and announced this as my species number 401 for Texas.
I mention that not because it’s a particularly grand achievement amongst birders, but mainly to emphasize the relative unimportance of assigning a number. My thoughtful wife pondered why birders flock to see a single, wayward individual bird and celebrate an encounter. No one seems to care that this lost bird is destined to die alone in an unfamiliar place. The focus on animal well-being is core to both of our professional lives, and her questions prompted my own curiosity.
At a Houston Audubon event this week I took the opportunity to ask several avid world birders if they’d ever seen a Cattle Tyrant in its native range and habitat. A couple commented that their numerous encounters in Panama and Brazil involved birds hopping around on sidewalks in downtown urban centers plucking flies off buildings and dumpsters. To which I thought to myself, well at least this new Texan has located its essential habitat. I commented that it would probably suffer from the cold temperatures this past week and it was pointed out that the natural range has similar conditions.
Satisfied that this visitor could survive, and perhaps physically thrive in its new home, I was troubled by the species description listing it as a social species often found in flocks. Isolation of a social species is the opposite of thriving when we look through the animal well-being lens. The North American Cattle Tyrant saga will continue to play out, and this individual bird will attract thousands of avian gawkers before disappearing mysteriously, or even sadder, to obscurity when the newness wears off.
Stepping back to explore the odd concept of listing in the birdwatching realm, I’ll state up front, that I’m a lister. It would take some analyzing to determine why its important for me to have a metric assigned to my time outside enjoying nature, but it’s there, it’s real and eBird is the enabler.
Likely the same neurochemical explosions associated with the dinging sound of increasing “likes” on a tik-tok post (if that’s even a thing). The inherent narcissism of making me and my sightings more important than the subject matter itself.
I realized this morning as I listened to the territorial call of an American Robin establishing a nest in my neighborhood and seeing the head of a Red-shouldered Hawk peering over the edge of last year’s nest that everyday encounters with the wildlife around us should be more important than a “first”. Listing is important, and the valuable data that researchers access through the aggregate of all of our eBird lists is critical to understanding species population trends, range shifts, migration timing and many other questions that we haven’t even asked yet.
While you’re out there chasing those rare birds, take time to notice everything else. Collectively we may start talking a little more loudly about the reduced numbers of common species, or the seemingly smaller numbers of species we’re seeing throughout the year, or the lack of a species during a migration, or two, or a decade. Since we all care about the birds we see, hopefully we’ll care as much about the ones we don’t.
Whooping Cranes at Goose Island State Park Photo credit: Greg Whittaker
If you want to see the first ever North American record of the Cattle Tyrant, go to the corner of North Chaparral Street and Schatzell Street in downtown Corpus Christi and watch for the pretty yellow-bellied bird hopping along the sidewalk catching flies off the side of a building.
On the way down, treat yourself to a drive by the Big Tree at Goose Island State Park to see some of the 536 living Whooping Crane that continue to visit Texas every November through February.
Greg Whittaker is Moody Gardens’ General Curator and a birding enthusiast. He chairs the Galveston County Audubon Group and serves on the Houston Audubon Board of Directors.
Moody Gardens was sad to recently announce the passing of Louie, the oldest jumping rat in the collective U.S. population.
Giant jumping rats are a nocturnal, endangered species native to Madagascar who face challenges in the wild including habitat loss, slow reproduction and limited range. Within the ecosystem they occupy a niche rabbits would normally fill in other areas of the world. They are monogamous and breed during the rainy season giving birth to one or two offspring. Their lifespan in the wild can be about six years while they can live to be around 10 in facilities like Moody Gardens.
Louie’s favorite foods were banana and peanut butter and he loved to train with his keepers as well as forage for bugs that were fed by our biologists to the Pygmy Slow Lorises but dropped by them onto the floor of the exhibit they shared in the Rainforest Pyramid.
Louie will be greatly missed by the Moody Gardens staff and his keepers, as any animal loss is considered a loss of family. We know that many of our guests will miss him as well. Do you have a photo or favorite memory of Louie? Share it with us on social media!
Experience Life at Moody Gardens, Galveston Island!
Work or play, the tropical splendor surrounds you in this little piece of paradise! Moody Gardens features a variety of unique attractions, a 4-diamond hotel, spa & convention center and an 18-hole seaside-links golf course.
Moody Gardens is a public, non-profit educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research.