fandomhigh | Maritime Mammals, Tuesday, Period 6

Summer had ~~handwavily~~ let her students know to meet at the causeway. She arranged for a shuttle service to take them to a mammal care center. The drive didn't take too long since the center was located somewhat close to the island.

"Today, I've brought you to this marine mammal care center to see first hand what this is all about. This center's core work is the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and injured marine mammals. They rescue different kinds of mammals but today, they're focusing on sea otters," Summer explained.

"Sea otters are among the smallest of marine mammals. They live primarily in the ocean and prey mostly on sea urchins and fish. These creatures were hunted for the fur for many years," she continued.

"Marine mammals, including these sea otters, are rescued for many different reasons -- including malnourishment, separation, entanglements, and diseases. Unfortunately, nearly ten percent of the animals rescued -- here and at other facilities across the globe -- have been impacted by human interaction and hazards like net and fishing line entanglements and boat strikes, to name a few." The students could see that Summer was very passionate about today's topic. ""A subsequent international ban on hunting, conservation efforts, and reintroduction programs into previously populated areas have contributed to the sea otters' numbers rebounding, and the species now occupies about two-thirds of its former range. The recovery of the sea otter is considered an important success in marine conservation," Summer said. "What I'd like for you to do is explore the facility and interact with the animals -- realize that centers like this one are extremely important to the preservation of oceanic life across the world."

"Explore to your heart's content, ask questions and have fun. If you need anything, feel free to come and find me."

[OCD ~~coming~~ up.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

It just needed to stated in some way, shape, or form that Ariel thought the ride in a vehicle to the center was the most incredible thing ever. She looked like she was still bouncing even toward the end of the lecture.

They'd get to do it again, too, that was the most beautiful thing about it.

Leda kinda noticed. "First time in a van?"

Ariel's grin was wide and toothsome, clearly showing her excitement before she nodded enthusiastically. Her arms went out because it was just so big and then they swished in the air to show how fast, and her hands waved in front of her like the scenery just flying back and then she sighed, feeling a bit like Flounder when he tried to tell his stories and just couldn't get it all out fast enough.

So she finished off with just a pleased grin and a happy, soundless sigh.

Leda grinned. The excitement was a bit infectious. "There aren't many things like this back home for me either. Only rich people can really afford them. It's mostly bikes and stuff."

Grinning somewhat apologetically, Ariel's expression made it clear that she didn't know what the heck a bike was. But, if it could be used in the context of a van, it was probably pretty neat.

Leda was of the opinion that bikes were really neat. Especially motor bikes. "Never seen a bike either?"

With her usual apologetic smile, Ariel shook her head.

"Well they're a little different than vans. For one thing, they only have two wheels, and they're usually open to the air."

Ooooh. Ariel couldn't help looking thoroughly impressed by that idea. The whole thought of the wind in her hair due to it being in the open air? It practically sounded like a song lyric, right there.

"Maybe I can show you mine back at school." ~~not dirty~~

Brightening, Ariel clapped her hand a little, her expression very clearly reading an eager yes, please!

Maritime Mammals, Tuesday, Period 6

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