Sea Lab Science Friday: Ocean Animal Biology

Come and join us for a Friday of marine science!  Discovery Hall Programs offers a day of ‘drop-in’ classes once a month for homeschool students, for parents looking for enrichment activities for their children, for students who can join us after a day of virtual learning, or just for folks who love to learn about all things marine science.

On one Friday of each month, DHP hosts three different field classes that are each approximately two hours long.  There are two different themes that will rotate – Ocean Animal Biology and Ocean STEM. Learners can participate in one, two, or three of the classes offered during Science Friday.  Some of the classes are appropriate for all ages, while younger students will benefit from working with an accompanying adult for others.

$10 per participant per class.

Gulf Coast Marine Animals – 9:30-11:30 am

Join us for an entertaining and informative introduction to a variety of marine species from the coast of Alabama and the Gulf of Mexico. After introducing local species of invertebrate and vertebrate animals such as the sponge, jellyfish, sea star, clam, snail, crab, shark, fish, octopus, and more, participants will be able to touch, hold, and examine specimens. This curiosity-generating activity will have participants learning about the animals’ adaptations, life cycles, and basic marine ecology.  

What to bring: a water bottle and excitement!

Suitable for all ages.

The Microscopic World of Plankton – 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Join us for an exciting look at some of the smallest and most amazing creatures on the planet - plankton. The word plankton comes from the Greek word “planktos” meaning to wander. The more we learn about the ocean, the more we realize how incredibly important plankton are. They are the base of many ocean food chains and they are responsible for much of the oxygen in our atmosphere, but they do have their dark side.  Come practice your collecting and microscope skills as we explore the world of plankton. 

What to bring: a water bottle and curiosity! 

Suitable for ages 10 and up, or for all ages with an accompanying adult. 

Wetland Ecology: The Salt Marsh – 3:00-5:00

Come explore with us and learn about an essential and fascinating local habitat - the salt marsh. During our exploration, we’ll discuss the critical role of wetland ecosystems, we’ll investigate the plants and animals found in this stressful habitat, and get firsthand experience examining its food web. After a brief chat setting the stage, we’ll head to the marsh on our science bus and explorers will have the opportunity to 'sink into their explorations’ by dragging seine nets, sieving mud, scooping up animals, and becoming up close and personal with marsh grasses. 

What to wear and bring: old clothes that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy, sneakers that lace tightly for walking in the mud, (no flip-flops, Crocs, Tevas, etc.), a hat to shade the sun while outside, sunscreen, a water bottle and your sense of adventure! 

Suitable for ages 10 and up, or for all ages with an accompanying adult.