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 The service in the restaurant
is very slow, so plan to get your meal as soon as they open, or
later in the afternoon after the lunchtime rush.
Noodle floats are freely
available at the entrance to the tropical river and resort pool.
You can enter and exit
the aviary without going in the tropical river, just ask a member
of staff to show you the entrance.
Take an underwater camera
for some great shots in the coral reef and stingray pool.
You are allowed to wear
sunglasses during the dolphin interaction, but trainers prefer it
if they are on a lanyard then they can't fall into the water.
The shops sell underwater
cameras, camera film, magazines, animal-friendly sunscreen and other
essentials.
Tips
for Interacting with Discovery Cove's Animals
The public's fascination with animals is stronger than ever. From
talking lizards in advertising to lovable pooches on sitcoms to
entire TV networks dedicated to creatures of all kinds, animals
are "in."
And now Discovery Cove gives animal lovers the best opportunity
ever to get up close with some of the most exotic and amazing species
from around the world. You can hug a dolphin, swim with beautiful
fish, feed tropical birds and come face to face with surprising
and unique animals.
In my many years of working with animals, I have found that to
build a bond between humans and animals, it takes the right environment,
the right approach and resoect for the animal. With that in mind,
here are a few tips to make your Discovery Cove animal encounters
fun and rewarding:
Consider all of the ways to communicate with the animal.
You can communicate with an animal visually (such as with hand signals),
verbally or through touch. The method you use may vary depending
on the animal. For instance, dolphins are well-attuned to touch,
while many birds respond to verbal cues. Ask one of Discovery Cove's
experts for advice on how to best interact with each animal you
encounter.
Use positive reinforcements.
The Discovery Cove animal-training process is based on positive
reinforcement for desired behavior. And in many instances guests
can use the same toys and treats used by the park's trainers as
they interact with the animals. Discovery Cove's animal specialists
will offer these reinforcements as appropriate.
Rely on the experts on hand.
Discovery Cove has assembled an experienced staff of animal trainers,
veterinarians and animal-care specialists. Most have years of experience
at SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and other zoological institutions. Don't
hestitate to ask them any questions, and rely on their guidance
to ensure your animal encounters are safe and memorable.
Respect the animal's environment.
The habitats at Discovery Cove are specially designed to encourage
personal interaction between animals and guests. They also provide
the animals with freedom to move away from the action for a while
if they choose to. At those times, enjoy the many other animals
available at Discovery Cove.
Brush up before you visit.
While experts at Discovery Cove can provide a wealth of information
on the park's animals, you can begin the learning at home before
your visit. One great source is the Discovery Cove website - www.discoverycove.com
- which will also link you to one of the world's foremost animal-information
sites at www.seaworld.org.
You may also find good books at your local library or bookstore.
The special interactions at Discovery Cove are fun and enriching
for the animals that reside there, and I hope these tips will help
make the experience equally rewarding for their human guests.
By Julie Scardina
Discovery Cove Animal Ambassador
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