Oceanworld

Renovation & Winter Hours Update

d_oceanworld — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 11:52:59 +0000

We’re delighted to share that, ahead of our 30th anniversary in spring 2026, we’ve begun renovating our gift shop and café area. These upgrades will create a brighter, more welcoming space for visitors in the future.

Because of this work, we will have very limited opening days in December, and the Aquarium will be closed for most of the month. We plan to remain open as much as possible throughout the renovation period and will keep any necessary closures to a minimum. Please check the dates below carefully before planning your visit.

January Hours & Opening Times

Aquarium closed from 20 – 28 January

We aim to be open ever day, but some closures may arise due to construction (planned and unexpected). Please check our website before traveling.

Closed 20th – 28th January
Open daily from 29th onwards.
Temporary entrance still in place during renovations

What to Expect During Renovations

All animal exhibits open on operating days
Temporary entrance in use
Retail space closed, small gift shop available
Immersive screen room closed

Thank You For Understanding

We truly appreciate your patience and understanding while we work to improve your future visits to Oceanworld. If you have any questions about December hours or planning your visit, our team is always happy to help:

+353 (0)66 915 2111

info@dingle-oceanworld.ie

Thank you again, and we apologise for any inconvenience caused during these essential works.

The post Renovation & Winter Hours Update appeared first on Oceanworld.

Green Sea Turtle Conservation: Solstice Returns to the Wild

d_oceanworld — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 14:17:38 +0000

From Christmas Eve rescue to a wild release on World Turtle Day.

On Christmas Eve, we got the call: a green sea turtle had washed up on a beach in Quilty, Co. Clare. Cold-stunned and barely moving, she was in serious trouble. Luckily, she was found by Hogsprickle Wildlife Rescue and brought inland for safety. Bev named her Solstice and cared for her until St. Stephen’s Day—when she was transferred to us at Oceanworld.

Solstice is a juvenile green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), a tropical species that doesn’t belong anywhere in Ireland’s winter waters. She arrived with severe hypothermia, pneumonia, and meningitis. There were also deep bite marks on her shell—most likely from a predator.

Over the next five months, our animal care team worked closely with O’Connell’s Vet Practice to give her every chance. She had warm saline baths, antibiotics, fluids, and lots of quiet recovery time. Slowly but surely, she began to heal. By May, she had gained 2kg, was active and alert, and ready for the next step.

Next Stop: Gran Canaria

Green turtles can’t survive long-term in cold waters, so returning her to the Irish coast wasn’t an option. We reached out to Centro de Recuperación de Fauna Silvestre de Tafira in Gran Canaria, who agreed to help.

Solstice was flown from Dublin to Gran Canaria on Aer Lingus flight EI1782, travelling in a custom-made, ventilated, temperature-safe box. Two of our aquarists accompanied her for the journey. Once cleared by the team in Gran Canaria, she was brought to Meloneras Beach—a site chosen for its warm shallows and rich seagrass meadows, perfect for green turtles. On World Turtle Day, 23rd May, Solstice was released back into the wild.

Why This Matters

Solstice’s rescue and release took months of care, collaboration, and commitment. We’re proud of what was achieved—and grateful for all of the local, national and international support!

Thanks go to Bev and the Hogsprickle team, Neasan and the team at O’Connell’s Vet Practice, our dedicated Oceanworld aquarists, Aer Lingus, our partners in Gran Canaria, and everyone who supports our conservation work. Every visit, every adoption, every donation makes rescues like Solstice’s possible.

She’s now exactly where she’s meant to be—free, wild, and home!

The post Green Sea Turtle Conservation: Solstice Returns to the Wild appeared first on Oceanworld.

Going Green This St. Patrick’s Day – There is No Planet B

d_oceanworld — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 15:25:46 +0000

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by Making a Difference for Our Planet

St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration, tradition, and of course, all things green! But this year at Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, we’re thinking beyond just the colour. Our theme for the St. Patrick’s Day parade, “There is No Planet B,” is a reminder that every small action we take can help protect the Earth and the incredible marine life that calls it home.

Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a necessity. As an aquarium dedicated to conservation, we see firsthand the impact that pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction have on marine species. So, this St. Patrick’s Day, let’s not just go green for the day—let’s make it a way of life. Here are simple, impactful ways we can all help make a difference.

1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – And Rethink!

We’ve all heard the three Rs, but there’s a fourth one that’s just as important: Rethink. Every choice we make, from the products we buy to the waste we create, has an impact.

Reduce: Cut down on single-use plastics. Bring a reusable bag, water bottle, and coffee cup wherever you go.
Reuse: Give items a second life. Up cycling old clothes, furniture, or containers can be a fun and creative way to reduce waste.
Recycle: Know your local recycling rules and ensure you’re sorting your waste correctly.
Rethink: Before buying something new, ask yourself—do I really need this? Is there a more sustainable alternative?

Ireland has made fantastic strides in reducing plastic waste, but there’s still work to be done. A staggering 10 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean each year, harming marine life and polluting our waters. Every piece of plastic we refuse is one less that could end up in the sea.

2. Go Green with Your Travel

St. Patrick’s Day is one of the busiest times of the year for travel, with parades, festivals, and gatherings happening all over. But transport is a major contributor to carbon emissions.

Walk or cycle whenever possible—it’s good for the planet and your health!
Use public transport instead of driving solo.
If you must drive, carpool to events with family and friends.
For longer journeys, consider offsetting your carbon footprint by supporting tree-planting or conservation projects.

At Oceanworld, we’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint. That’s why we’ve taken steps to improve energy efficiency in our exhibits, use LED lighting, and cut back on unnecessary energy waste.

3. Protect Our Oceans

Ireland is home to some of the most stunning coastlines in the world, and protecting them should be a priority. This St. Patrick’s Day, consider giving back to the planet by helping keep our beaches and waters clean.

Join us or organise a local beach clean-up – even picking up a few bits of litter makes a difference.
Be mindful of what goes down your drain – avoid pouring oil, chemicals, or non-biodegradable items into sinks or toilets.
Use reef-safe sunscreens and eco-friendly products to prevent pollution in our waterways.

Our team at Dingle Oceanworld is involved in marine conservation efforts, from rescuing stranded sea turtles to rearing and releasing endangered natterjack toads. When we protect the ocean, we’re protecting the home of countless species—including many of the amazing animals you see in our exhibits.

4. Make Sustainable Food Choices

Did you know that our food choices can have a major environmental impact? Overfishing, deforestation for agriculture, and food waste all contribute to climate change.

Choose sustainably sourced seafood with the MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) label.
Support local produce to reduce food miles and carbon emissions.
Cut back on food waste—freeze leftovers, compost food scraps, and plan meals to use up ingredients.

At the aquarium, we’re mindful of the seafood we source for our animals, ensuring that it comes from sustainable, ethical fisheries. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep fish populations healthy for future generations.

5. Support Conservation Efforts – Even Just by Visiting!

One of the best ways to help the planet is by supporting organisations and initiatives that work towards conservation. Whether it’s a marine charity, a wildlife rescue, or a rewilding project, every little bit counts.

Many people don’t realise that just by visiting accredited zoos and aquariums, you’re already supporting conservation. At Dingle Oceanworld, we actively participate in international breeding and conservation programmes, like the EEP (European Endangered Species Programme) for penguins. This means that some of the animals in our care, like our Humboldt and gentoo penguins, are part of carefully managed breeding programmes to ensure the survival of their species in the wild.

In addition to our penguin EEP participation, we also:

Rescue and rehabilitate injured sea turtles.
Rear and release natterjack toads, Ireland’s only native toad species.
Run a European lobster hatchery, helping boost wild populations.
Raise awareness about marine life and conservation through our education programmes.

So, if you’ve ever visited us (or any other accredited zoo or aquarium), you’ve already helped conservation efforts. Your visit helps fund vital research, breeding programmes, and wildlife rehabilitation, making a real impact on endangered species.

6. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the Eco-Friendly Way

Parades, festivals, and celebrations can be fun while still being kind to the planet. Here are some eco-friendly ways to enjoy the day:

Ditch disposable decorations – Instead of plastic banners and balloons, use biodegradable or reusable decor.
Say no to fast fashion – If you need something green to wear, choose clothes you already own or check second-hand shops.
Use biodegradable glitter and face paint – Traditional glitter is microplastic, which can end up in waterways and harm marine life.
Be mindful of waste – If you’re out celebrating, dispose of rubbish properly and leave no trace.

7. Educate and Inspire Others

One of the best things we can do for the planet is spread awareness. Share what you’ve learned, encourage friends and family to adopt greener habits, and support businesses that prioritise sustainability.

At Oceanworld, our mission is to educate, inspire, and protect. We love seeing visitors leave our aquarium feeling more connected to the ocean and eager to make a difference. Whether it’s through school programmes, interactive exhibits, or conservation talks, we’re dedicated to making marine conservation accessible and engaging for all.

There Is No Planet B

St. Patrick’s Day is about celebrating Irish culture and community, but it’s also a great time to think about the world we want to leave behind for future generations. There is no Planet B, and every action—big or small—adds up to make a real impact.

This year, let’s go green in more ways than one. Whether it’s reducing waste, making sustainable choices, or supporting conservation efforts, we all have the power to protect the Earth.

So, as you enjoy the festivities, raise a toast to the planet, make a pledge to go greener, and remember—our oceans, wildlife, and future generations are counting on us.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the Oceanworld Team!

The post Going Green This St. Patrick’s Day – There is No Planet B appeared first on Oceanworld.

Solstice’s Fight for Survival: A Green Sea Turtle’s Rescue and Rehabilitation

d_oceanworld — Sun, 05 Jan 2025 15:56:14 +0000

Rescuing Solstice: How We’re Helping a Critically Ill Green Sea Turtle

Over the Christmas holidays, a rare and critically ill green sea turtle named Solstice arrived at Dingle Oceanworld. Found cold and weak on a beach in Clare by a woman named Emma on Christmas Eve, Solstice had been swept over 3,000 miles off course by Atlantic currents. Her story is not only a testament to the resilience of marine life but also an opportunity to highlight the importance of sea turtle conservation and our ongoing rehabilitation efforts.

Discovery and Rescue

Solstice was first discovered stranded and barely responsive, covered in seaweed on the shore. She was initially taken in by Hogsprickle Rescue, who provided immediate care to stabilise her until she could be safely transported to Oceanworld on St. Stephen’s Day.

Upon arrival, Solstice was in a dire state. She was diagnosed with hypothermia, a respiratory infection, and meningitis—all potentially life-threatening conditions. Additionally, her shell bore puncture marks, indicating that she may have survived an attack by a predator, likely a large marine mammal or a shark.

Understanding Cold-Stunning

One of the primary reasons for Solstice’s critical condition was “cold-stunning.” Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), like all sea turtles, are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature is regulated by their environment. When ocean temperatures drop suddenly, sea turtles can become immobilised and unable to swim, a condition known as cold-stunning. Without immediate intervention, cold-stunned turtles face a high risk of death due to hypothermia, dehydration, and secondary infections.

In Solstice’s case, the cold-stunning not only left her unable to move but also contributed to the onset of her respiratory issues. Treating cold-stunned turtles requires careful warming, hydration, and often antibiotics to combat infection.

Sea Turtle Conservation and Rehabilitation at Dingle Oceanworld

We have been involved in sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation for many years. Our programme at Oceanworld focuses on the rescue, treatment, and release of marine turtles that are found stranded or injured in Irish waters. While loggerhead turtles are the most common species to wash ashore in Ireland, green turtles are far rarer, making Solstice’s case particularly significant.

Key Steps in Our Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Process:

Initial Stabilisation: Ensuring the turtle is warm and hydrated is the first priority. Cold-stunned turtles are gradually warmed to avoid shock, and fluids are administered to prevent dehydration.

Medical Treatment: Turtles with infections or injuries, like Solstice, are treated with antibiotics and pain relief under veterinary supervision.

Monitoring and Nutrition: Sea turtles are monitored round-the-clock, and their diet is carefully managed. Adult green sea turtles are herbivores, typically feeding on eel grass and algae. However, in rehabilitation settings, substitutes such as leafy greens and specialised supplements are often used.

Preparation for Release: Once the turtle is stable and healthy, the next goal is to release it back into its natural habitat, ideally in warmer waters where it can thrive.

About Green Sea Turtles

Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) are a large species of hard-shelled sea turtles and are named for the greenish colour of their fat, which results from their herbivorous diet as adults. They inhabit tropical and subtropical waters around the world and are primarily found in shallow coastal areas, feeding on seagrasses and algae.

Key Facts:

Diet: Green sea turtles are unique among sea turtles for being primarily herbivorous as adults. Juveniles, however, may consume a more varied diet, including small crustaceans, seaweed, and algae.

Habitat: They are typically found in warm, shallow waters with abundant seagrass beds. Key nesting sites include beaches in the Caribbean, Pacific islands, and the coasts of Africa.

Reproduction: Female green turtles return to the same beaches where they were born to lay their eggs. They can lay several clutches of eggs during a nesting season, with each clutch containing around 100 eggs.

Conservation Status: Green sea turtles are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Major threats include habitat loss, poaching, accidental bycatch in fishing gear, and pollution.

Solstice’s Current Condition and Outlook

While Solstice remains critically ill, she has shown signs of slight improvement. Our team continues to provide intensive care, including warmth, fluids, antibiotics, and close monitoring. Her journey to recovery is far from over, but every small step forward is a positive sign.

The next critical milestone will be determining whether Solstice is stable enough to begin preparations for her eventual release. Given the complexity of her condition and the rarity of her species in Irish waters, her case underscores the importance of ongoing marine conservation efforts.

What to Do if You Find a Stranded Turtle

If you come across a stranded sea turtle, it’s important to act quickly but carefully to give the animal the best chance of survival. Here are the key steps to follow:

Do Not Return It to the Water: Cold-stunned turtles are unable to swim and may drown if placed back in the sea. Keep the turtle on dry land.

Move the Turtle to a Safe Location: If possible, move the turtle above the high tide line and out of direct wind. Handle the turtle gently and avoid touching its head or limbs.

Keep the Turtle Warm: Cover the turtle with a damp towel to help retain its body heat. Do not attempt to warm it rapidly with hot water or any direct heat.

Contact Us: Call Oceanworld Aquarium immediately. Our team is experienced in marine animal rescue and can provide guidance or arrange transport for the turtle. Even if the sea turtle is dead, please contact us as it may aid scientific research.

By knowing how to respond, you can play a vital role in helping stranded sea turtles like Solstice receive the care they need.

Solstice’s Story Continues

Solstice’s journey is one of resilience, hope, and the critical role of conservation. While her future remains uncertain, the dedicated efforts of our team at Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium highlight the importance of protecting and rehabilitating these magnificent creatures.

Stay tuned for updates on Solstice’s progress and our ongoing conservation initiatives.

The post Solstice’s Fight for Survival: A Green Sea Turtle’s Rescue and Rehabilitation appeared first on Oceanworld.

Sharks of Irish Waters

d_oceanworld — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 05:59:57 +0000

Discover the Wonders Beneath the Surface

At Oceanworld Aquarium in Dingle, we’re lucky to be surrounded by the rich and diverse waters of Ireland, home to over 40 species of sharks. These incredible creatures are vital to the health of our oceans; moreover, we’re passionate about sharing their stories. From the gentle basking shark to the elusive angel shark, each species has something unique to teach us about the ocean’s complex ecosystems. Discover some of the incredible species of sharks in Irish waters with us.

Sharks have roamed the oceans for over 400 million years, predating the dinosaurs. As apex predators, they play a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. They regulate fish populations and ensure the health of coral reefs and seabeds. In Ireland, sharks have a special connection to coastal communities, which have relied on the ocean for generations. However, many species face growing threats, and their conservation has never been more critical.

Angel Shark (Squatina squatina): The Hidden Hunter

We are most excited to highlight the angel shark, one of Europe’s most endangered sharks. Once common in Irish waters, its population has dropped by over 90% since the 1960s due to habitat destruction, overfishing, and accidental capture. This unique shark, often mistaken for a ray, lies hidden in sandy seabeds, perfectly camouflaged, waiting to ambush prey.

Size: Up to 2.4 metres (8 feet).
Habitat: Sandy or muddy seabeds, such as those in Tralee Bay, one of its last strongholds.
Diet: Small fish, crustaceans, and molluscs.
Threats: Habitat destruction, bycatch in fishing gear, and a lack of awareness about its plight.

Recent efforts by the Marine Institute and local fishers have advanced our understanding of the angel shark. For example, Tralee Bay, located near Dingle, has proven to be a critical habitat and possible nursery ground for this species. Ongoing tagging projects are collecting invaluable data to protect these rare sharks.

Did You Know?

Angel sharks can strike their prey in just 1/10th of a second.
Their flat, ray-like bodies make them masters of camouflage.
They are among the most endangered sharks in Europe.

Other Sharks in Irish Waters

In addition to the angel shark, Irish waters are home to a wide variety of shark species, ranging from the massive basking shark to rare deep-sea species, like the Greenland shark. Here are twelve fascinating sharks you might not know inhabit Irish waters:

Large Sharks of Ireland

Basking Shark (Cetorhinus maximus)
- Size: Up to 12 metres (39 feet).
- Conservation Status: Vulnerable, protected in Irish waters under the Wildlife Act since 1999.
- Fun Fact: The second-largest fish in the world, basking sharks feed on plankton and may be seen near the surface during summer months along Ireland’s west coast.
Shortfin Mako Shark (Isurus oxyrinchus)
- Size: Up to 4 metres (13 feet).
- Conservation Status: Endangered.
- Fun Fact: The fastest shark in the world, capable of speeds up to 70 km/h (43 mph).
Greenland Shark (Somniosus microcephalus)
- Thresher Shark (Alopias vulpinus)
  - Size: Up to 6 metres (20 feet), with half of that length being its long tail.
  - Conservation Status: Vulnerable.
  - Fun Fact: Thresher sharks whip their tails to stun prey, making them unique hunters.
Smaller or Rare Sharks
- Small-Spotted Catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula)
  - Size: Up to 1 metre (3.3 feet).
  - Conservation Status: Least Concern.
  - Fun Fact: Ireland’s most common shark, small-spotted catsharks lay egg cases known as “mermaid’s purses.”
- Greater-Spotted Dogfish (Nursehound) (Scyliorhinus stellaris)
  - Size: Up to 1.6 metres (5.2 feet).
  - Conservation Status: Near Threatened.
  - Fun Fact: Nursehounds, also called bullhuss, have beautiful spotted patterns and prefer rocky habitats.
- Velvet Belly Lanternshark (Etmopterus spinax)
  - Size: Up to 60 cm (2 feet).
  - Conservation Status: Least Concern.
  - Fun Fact: This deep-sea shark glows in the dark using bioluminescence to confuse predators and attract prey.
Exploring Sharks at Oceanworld Aquarium

At Oceanworld Aquarium, visitors can experience the magic of sharks like never before. You can discover full-size sand tiger sharks at the Shark Tank, along with native species in many of our exhibits, such as the small-spotted catshark and greater-spotted dogfish, in our touch tank, where you’ll feel their unique rough skin. Meanwhile, our ocean tunnel provides a spectacular view of these sharks swimming gracefully alongside other marine creatures. In addition, our shark nursery offers a rare glimpse into the early stages of a shark’s life, showcasing baby catsharks and their fascinating egg cases.

How You Can Help Protect Sharks

Sharks face increasing threats from habitat destruction, bycatch, and climate change. Fortunately, there are ways you can help:
- Choose sustainable seafood to reduce overfishing.
- Support marine conservation projects that focus on protecting shark habitats.
- Spread awareness about the importance of sharks in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.
By learning more and supporting conservation, you can make a difference for sharks and the oceans they inhabit. Discover more about how you can help native Irish sharks and other elasmobranchs with the Irish Elasmobranch Group.

The post Sharks of Irish Waters appeared first on Oceanworld.

Meet Our Penguins: Gentoo

d_oceanworld — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 14:29:22 +0000

Meet the world’s fastest waddle!

Venture into the icy realms of Antarctica and encounter our fascinating gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua). Recognisable by the distinctive white patches above their eyes and their vibrant orange beaks, these penguins are superbly adapted to life in some of the harshest environments on Earth. Each penguin in our waddle—a charming term for a group of penguins—can be identified by a unique colour-coded wingband, making it easy to spot them.

Bubbles

Bubbles is a playful and curious penguin who loves swimming and exploring new toys. She’s always watching the keepers, especially when they spread out fresh snow—her favourite! She even prefers to eat her favourite food, sprat, while swimming.
Wingband: Yellow

Erik

Erik has two great loves in life: food and his pal, Bubbles. He’s always the first in line at lunchtime, and if there’s fish on the way, you can bet he’s already there, eagerly waiting. While he doesn’t care much for mingling with the rest of the colony, Erik is perfectly happy as long as he’s got a full belly and Bubbles by his side.
Wingband: Black/Green

Fletcher

Born in Edinburgh in 2007, Fletcher is a quiet and gentle penguin with a unique way of eating—he takes his fish from the side! He’s a devoted partner to Sneachta, and together they are parents to Uisce, born here in 2014.
Wingband: Red/black

Grian

We’re overjoyed to introduce our newest chick, Grian, the first gentoo penguin hatched at Oceanworld in ten years! Born to Candy and Sven on 23 May 2024, Grian is an absolute livewire. She follows her keepers everywhere with no fear, always inquisitive and eager to know what’s going on with everything around her.
Wingband: black/yellow

Kerry

Born in 2009, Kerry is a curious and gentle penguin who loves investigating everything around her. She enjoys hunting for small pieces of fish and playing ball with her keepers. During breeding season, she fiercely protects her nest, only leaving for food or a quick swim.
Wingband: Green/yellow

Missy

Missy is a playful penguin who loves chasing objects through the water and spending time with her partner, Bubbles. Fiercely protective of her nest, she enjoys a dip in the pool when off-duty. Her favourite food is chunky whiting, and she loves admiring herself in her hanging mirror!
Wingband: Black/white

Noldus

Noldus is the cheekiest penguin in the waddle, known for his greedy nature and mischievous antics. He’s always on the lookout for a chance to swipe fish from the others, earning him the title of the group’s resident fish thief! His naughty behaviour keeps the keepers on their toes, but his playful charm makes him a fan favourite.
Wingband: Blue

Paddy

Paddy is a gentle giant who gets extra excited at feeding time, happily devouring even the biggest fish! He has a quirky habit of jumping out of the pool on the opposite side from the others, running across the enclosure to get to the food.
Wingband: Orange/white

Penelope

Penelope is a true penguin’s penguin—only interested in keepers when they have food! She loves whiting and has a quirky habit of grabbing her fish and running away to eat it. When on her nest, Penelope is fiercely protective, giving a warning pinch to anything that gets too close.
Wingband: Yellow/red

Sneachta

Sneachta is the bravest and most curious of the group, always the first to investigate new toys or enrichment. She loves playing with the keepers, even when they’re busy cleaning! Sneachta is also the proud mother of Uisce, and they share the same playful personality. Her name is the Irish word for snow!
Wingband: Blue/white

Steffi

Steffi is a playful and curious penguin with a big love for sprat. You’ll often find her interacting with visitors and keepers, showing off her energetic personality. Steffi thrives on enrichment activities, always eager to explore new toys and games. Her enthusiasm makes her a joy to watch!
Wingband: Orange

Sven

Sven is a quiet and patient penguin, especially during feeding time, often waiting while others grab their fish. He and Candy make a great team during breeding season. His favourite foods are whiting and krill, which he loves to eat while swimming!
Wingband: Purple

Tom (Tom Crean)

Named after the great Antarctic explorer from Kerry, Tom is definitely the naughtiest penguin in the colony. He loves skipping the queue for fish, pushing his way to the front, and even stealing fish from others. However, when it comes to his partner Kerry, Tom is a total sweetheart. He ensures she gets enough time off the nest to eat and is a great protector of their nest.
Wingband: Green/white

Uisce

Uisce is the first Irish-born gentoo penguin, so he is our pride and joy. As the youngest, he’s one of the most inquisitive penguins in the waddle, always curious about his surroundings and finding everything interesting. He’s also the chattiest of the group, often calling out while swimming in the pool!
Wingband: Green/white/orange

The post Meet Our Penguins: Gentoo appeared first on Oceanworld.

Meet Our Penguins: Humboldt

d_oceanworld — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 12:45:44 +0000

Say Cheese! Meet our Waddle

At Dingle Oceanworld, our Humboldt penguins each have a character all their own! From the loud and proud Babybell to the wise and patient Romany, our colony—or waddle—of penguins are a lively bunch. With each sporting a unique wingband, it’s easy for visitors to follow along and get to know the quirks of these fascinating birds. Whether they’re busy building nests or making a splash in the pool, each one has a story to tell. Let’s introduce you to the stars of our Penguin Coast!

Blue

Blue is a wandering soul, aloof and unpredictable. One minute he’s the keepers best friend, the next he’s elusive for days, not wanting anything to do with anyone. His mysterious behaviour keeps everyone guessing where he’ll turn up next.
Wingband: blue

Brie

Brie is the most outstanding mother, always giving her all to raising her chicks. She’s patient and cooperative with the keepers, often making it easy for them to weigh and check on her chicks. Her calm, nurturing nature makes her a cornerstone of the colony.
Wingband:

Cheddar

Cheddar is the runt of last year’s chicks, a quiet and docile penguin who loves to “help” the keepers when they’re cleaning the pool, though she often gets in the way more than anything! She’s a gentle soul who enjoys watching the action from the sidelines.
Wingband: pink/black

Feta

One of this year’s chicks, Feta is a large but quiet boy who enjoys staying in his box for peace and quiet. He’s calmer than his more active sibling, preferring the quiet life away from the commotion of the colony. His serene nature makes him a bit of a mystery to visitors.
Wingband: blue/pink

Gary

Gary is the top dog of the Humboldt colony, a large and strong bird who commands respect. As the dominant male, he’s a bit of a ladies’ man, often trying to court other penguins’ partners while his own mate is minding the nest! Despite his cheeky antics, he is fiercely protective of his own family.
Wingband: green

Halloumi

Halloumi, Feta’s twin sister, is the shyest penguin. She spends a lot of time floating around the ramp, rarely deep diving, and prefers staying close to her mum. Her reserved nature makes her a bit of a mystery to visitors, but she’s happy in her quiet corner.
Wingband: red/white

Leicester

Leicester is a firm favourite, a very friendly penguin who enjoys following keepers and watching what they’re doing. She takes it upon herself to teach the younger penguins colony life and once even tried to steal a chick to become a mother. Her nurturing side shines through even though she doesn’t have her own partner.
Wingband: grey

Parmesan

Parmesan, Edam’s twin, shares his brother’s active and boisterous nature. The two of them are constantly out and about, exploring their surroundings. Parmesan’s curious nature makes him one of the most adventurous penguins in the colony.
Wingband: blue/white

Ricotta

Ricotta spends most of his time in the pool and rarely bothers to come out. He’s the fastest swimmer in the colony but still feels the need to visit his mum’s nest now and then. His love of the water makes him one of the most graceful penguins to watch.
Wingband: light green

Romany

As the oldest Humboldt female, Romany is smart and knows exactly how to get what she wants. She sets clear boundaries and has found that staying in one spot when fish are thrown guarantees her a full belly without the rush! Her wisdom and patience make her a respected elder among the group.
Wingband: yellow/blue

Sadsack

Sadsack is our resident grumpy old man, showing his age and very fussy about how things are done—especially when it comes to feeding time, where everything must be just right! He values his own space and is known for being a bit of a pain, with his favourite pastime being nipping at the back of the keepers’ knees. Despite his grumpy exterior, there’s a sense of routine and order that comforts him.
Wingband: blue/green

Wensleydale

Wensleydale is the quiet partner of the dominant male, Gary. Unlike her bold counterpart, she prefers to stay in the background, often letting Gary take the spotlight. She’s flighty and quick to panic, always on high alert. Even though she’s nervous, she has a calm and gentle presence that helps balance out the dynamics of the colony.
Wingband: red

The post Meet Our Penguins: Humboldt appeared first on Oceanworld.

The Dingle Sturgeon Story

d_oceanworld — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 07:01:45 +0000

The crowds gathered to see this unusual species. The fish was being kept alive on the deck of the boat, under wet sacks, until a photographer from The Kerryman came along to preserve the moment.

The sturgeon was a so-called ‘royal fish’, which meant that any sturgeon caught in Irish waters had to be given to the King or Queen. That was back in the 1400s when that edict was issued. In 1966, this was interpreted as meaning that the sturgeon should be given to the Head of State, President Eamon De Valera.

The Dingle fishermen contacted Áras an Uachtarán. Dev thanked them and asked that they give the sturgeon to the Poor Clare nuns in Kenmare. The nuns were delighted and prepared to have a feast with this unusual dish.

Back in Dingle, the photographer still hadn’t arrived. One young fisherman was standing beside the fish when he heard a crewman call, “Throw it out!”. He picked up the fish. Soon a few more in the crowd took up the cry, “Throw it out!” Of course, they meant, to throw the fish out onto the pier but, in a moment of distraction, he thought they meant he should throw it into the water. He did just that.

A groan and a roar went up from the crowd as fishermen scrambled in punts with nets and boathooks to try and find the fish. They had no luck – the fish was gone.

The nuns in Kenmare weren’t going to get their fish – the Dingle fishermen sent them a box of other fish instead.

Later that day, while one punt was still trawling the harbour in the hope of catching the sturgeon, another fishing-boat came into the harbour. Amazingly, this one had a sturgeon too. Not as big, but still, a sturgeon.

The day was saved, the fishermen’s promise to Dev would be fulfilled and the nuns would get their fish.

But that was not going to happen. The fisherman who caught the second sturgeon had been involved in republican activities and had been interned in The Curragh in the 1940s – by Dev. There was no way, Dev was going to get his sturgeon – whether he was giving it to the nuns or not.

Instead, this second sturgeon was sent to the fish market in Billingsgate in London where it fetched a fine price.

And that was that. Until about 10 years later when the republican fisherman was told what had ultimately happened his sturgeon.

The fish merchants in Billingsgate were purveyors of fish to Buckingham Palace and, the fish that didn’t go to Dev, it went to the British queen instead.

The post The Dingle Sturgeon Story appeared first on Oceanworld.

Information about the Dingle Peninsula

d_oceanworld — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 13:21:42 +0000

Other Things to do

www.blasketislandsealifetours.com/dingle
www.dingleboattours.com/
www.dingledolphin.com/
wwwdingleseasafari.com/
www.sandyfeetfarm.ie/
www.blasket.ie/
www.greatblasketisland.net/
www.blasketislandferry.com/
www.marinetours.ie/

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Toby the Loggerhead Turtle

d_oceanworld — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 13:21:04 +0000

Toby has officially left the country and is headed to warmer waters for Christmas This August a Loggerhead turtle washed up on Kilcummin Strand in Brandon Bay. The young turtle, named Toby, was found by local Eithne Griffin who contacted Oceanworld. Since being at the Aquarium, Toby has gained twice its original weight and has been fully nursed back to health by our dedicated team. With assistance from Mark de Boer of Rotterdam Zoo and João Correia of Flying Sharks Portugal, Toby is being released in the warm waters of the Azores, Portugal. We would also like to thank Brendan O Connell Vets of Dingle who have been of great assistance throughout Toby’s rehabilitation!
December 2023.

Toby was successfully released on 30 December, just in time for the New Year! The young loggerhead which washed up on Kilcummin Strand in Brandon Bay this summer & was rehabilitated at Oceanworld, is now loving life in the warmer water of the Azores thanks to help from our friends at Flying Sharks Portugal.

Thanks to Flying Sharks Portugal for these awesome images of Toby & the great care taken in her release!

Photo Credit: Dominick walsh Photography and Flying Sharks

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