July’s Science Saturday brought coastal exploration to life as Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas Director Kitty Edwards got hands-on with underwater invertebrates near the University of the Virgin Islands Marine Science Center. Guided by Director Howard Forbes, Jr. of the Virgin Islands Marine Advisory Service, the walk offered insights into the many marine animals living along our shores. West Indian sea eggs, fire worms, and decorator crabs, oh my! There are several creatures out there we need to better understand and protect.

Once in the water, Kitty encountered even more marine life in their natural habitats. One standout was the fuzzy chiton. It is a prehistoric snail-like animal that clings tightly to shoreline rocks, patiently riding the tides alongside neighboring barnacles. Further out, a checkered pufferfish glided through the turtle grass. Director Forbes reminded participants not to intentionally provoke pufferfish to inflate, as doing so can stress their organs and leave them in a prolonged recovery state.

The Youth Ocean Explorers also joined the tour, sharing highlights from their summer adventures. On a recent shoreline walk nearby, they identified over 100 unique plant and marine species. These promising marine biologists emphasized how climate change, human activity, and coastal development threaten the health and longevity of these ecosystems. Their message was clear: we must stay aware of our impact, even on the animals we don’t always see.

To learn more about what to expect when exploring our shorelines and to catch a glimpse of a super slippery sea hare, click below to watch the full interview with Howard and Kitty!

Science Saturday, a monthly Facebook LIVE event, airs on the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m.  Watch the full interview on the Department of Planning and Natural Resources Facebook page or the Science Saturday YouTube playlist.