Watermarks

Fall 2026

Welcome to Watermarks

Welcome to the fall issue of our Watermarks member magazine! In this issue, you're getting an exclusive new perspective on some of the ambassador animals you know and love from our daily Animal Encounters. We're also sharing the story behind new art on Harbor Wetland, taking a close look at two- and three-toed sloths in our latest Mistaken Identities, and hearing from Member Evening attendees about what they love about the National Aquarium in honor of our 45th birthday. (P.S. We love you, too!)

Animals With Agency

Have you ever enjoyed an Animal Encounter with Brutus the boa constrictor or Joey the yellow-footed tortoise during a visit to the Aquarium? Brutus and Joey are both Aquarium ambassador animals, and they have a remarkable amount of input about what they do and don't do on any given day. This is thanks to the hard work, patience and expertise of the Aquarium's Guest Engagement and Behavioral Husbandry/Animal Programs teams.

Go Behind the Scenes

Member Memories for Our 45th

We're blushing! The National Aquarium turned 45 on August 8, and during our August Member Evening, many of you stepped up to the mic to tell us what the Aquarium means to you and why you love being a member.

Thank you for being part of the Aquarium community and for making this place your place for 45 years and counting! Aquarium members like you continue to play a vital role in advancing our work in animal care, conservation and education.

Unveiling New Harbor Wetland Art

Attracting native species to Baltimore. Promoting healthy water in the Inner Harbor. Reconnecting the city with its natural history. These are all important components of Harbor Wetland. So is art that inspires visitors to connect with the exhibit in unique and meaningful ways. We recently unveiled brand-new artwork on Harbor Wetland created by 31 young Baltimoreans through a partnership with the nonprofit Baltimore Youth Arts.

Mistaken Identities: Sloths Edition

What a difference a toe makes! Aquarium members are likely familiar with the Linne's two-toed sloths that climb around overhead in our Upland Tropical Rain Forest habitat. They and other two-toed sloths don't have as much in common with three-toed sloths as you might think. We explore the similarities and differences between two- and three-toed sloths—and introduce you to the phenomenon of sloth moths.

President and Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Driban

"For 45 years, the National Aquarium has served as a trusted institution and source of pride for the Baltimore community, inspiring millions of people and establishing itself as a leader in animal care and conservation. Aquarium members have been an essential part of that journey, and we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment to our mission. Your dedication and support help us inspire meaningful connections with the natural world, and we look forward to continuing that important work together for generations to come."

Share the Aquarium This Holiday Season

Gift a National Aquarium membership and share a gift they'll enjoy throughout the year. We also offer Aquarium gift cards, apparel and more. Every purchase supports our mission to connect people with nature, and we're grateful for your support!

Animal Updates Welcoming New Faces

Our Surviving Through Adaptation exhibit has some new residents! Each animal lives in a different habitat, which makes for a fun scavenger hunt. See how many new faces you can find during your next visit with these tips.

Close-Up of the Head and Eye of a Giant Pacific Octopus With Its Arms Curled Up
Spotfin Lionfish, With Its Fins Spread Out, Swimming Down Towards Artificial Coral at the Bottom of the Surviving Through Adaptation Exhibit
Close-Up of the Texture and Colors of the Face of a Spotted Scorpionfish
Spotted Spiny Lobster Crawling Out From a Small Rocky Crevice

More From Watermarks

Animals Kai's Kids

Animals A Day in the Life: National Aquarium Vets

Conservation Baltimore Harbor: Replenishing What We've Depleted

Support the National Aquarium Together, we can change the way humanity cares for our ocean planet.