A winter storm graced south Mississippi and the state’s Gulf Coast region with unprecedented levels of snowfall — paving the way for folks to capitalize on a rare opportunity to amuse themselves in what was, by all accounts, a picturesque wonderland.
Some bundled up, indulged in a hot beverage, and gazed outdoors while others wasted no time venturing out, making snow angels and engaging in (hopefully) friendly snowball fights. Some kept their pets indoors as others allowed their furry friends to roam about in conditions they have likely yet to encounter.
In Gulfport, Mississippi Aquarium staff did a little bit of both with its animals. For those unfamiliar with the facility’s layout, the aquarium boasts an outdoor pathway featuring alligators, otters, dolphins, a bird exhibit, and a myriad of fish and turtle species.
According to Dr. Alexa Delaune, the aquarium’s vice president of animal research, employees geared up for the inclement weather and moved some of the outdoor animals indoors for their safety. But those who risked little by being out in the freezing cold relished in the uncommon elements.
“It was incredible. I got to build a snowman and show it to our dolphins. They seemed pretty impressed,” Delaune said jokingly on Good Things with Rebecca Turner. “The otters were sliding down the hill. They shoved their little noses in the snow and came up with white noses and white whiskers. Some of our duck species were out in the little ponds, feeling pretty happy, it seemed.”
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Mississippi Aquarium closed its doors to the public this past Tuesday and Wednesday due to icy road conditions. However, the facility re-welcomed human visitors on Thursday. Hours of operation and ticket pricing at the aquarium can be found here.
