#33 DO NOT RELEASE BALLOONS

It's been about 2 weeks since Valentine's Day was observed throughout the U.S. and many other countries. All day long, love and affection among family, friends, and especially significant others was celebrated. However, this wonderful celebration can also have harmful affects on marine animals. During the last few days, NEAq observers have frequently witnessed evidence of Valentine's Day in the form of pink and red balloons scattered throughout the Central EWS survey area.

Balloons are detrimental to marine mammals, sea turtles, and birds because they can oftentimes be mistaken for jellyfish or other prey (plastic bags pose the same problem). Marine animals ingest this non-biodegradable material (typically rubber or Mylar) and then can't digest it. This causes intestinal blockage, which ultimately leads to starvation. Not only can balloons and other marine debris be ingested, but it can entangle marine animals as well.

So next Valentine's Day, or any other holiday, avoid purchasing balloons or at least be sure they are disposed of appropriately and do not end up in the marine environment. In addition, if you see balloons or other marine debris out on the water or on the beach, if possible, pick it up and dispose of it properly. To read more about the problem of marine debris click here.

Click here to read a blog entry from the Aquarium's seasonal Whale Watch Log where naturalists spotted balloons right next to where a whale was feeding! Find out what other marine animals can be harmed by helium balloons here.

-Karen

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