The Lorikeets exhibit was such a hit last year at the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk that it is back by popular demand.
Unfortunately, it only runs to Labor Day. The Greenwich Free Press GHS interns Matt and Courtney enjoyed the exhibit in June. It is more fun that you can imagine. The birds are very gentle and friendly when they land on your arms or shoulder.
The exhibit, located on the Aquarium’s riverfront courtyard, is a walk-through aviary featuring more than 50 free-flying birds.
Lorikeets are colorful medium-sized parrots, native to the south Pacific, that come in a dazzling rainbow of colors. In rain forests and woodlands, lorikeets primarily feed on the nectars of various blossoms and fruits. But, in the Aquarium exhibit, visitors can purchase cups of nectar to hand-feed the birds, which may land on hands, arms, shoulders and heads to get at the sweet sauce.
Chris Loynd, the Aquarium’s marketing director, said it is those special moments of animal interaction – emphasized at The Maritime Aquarium – that enhance the South Norwalk attraction’s reputation for memorable, affordable and nearby family fun in Connecticut.
Loynd added that, although the lorikeets have been at The Maritime Aquarium for two
consecutive summers, they will not be back for summer 2015. “This really is your last chance for the lorikeets,” he said.
Entry into “Lorikeets” is free with Aquarium admission. Nectar cups cost $3. Anyone with an aversion to close encounters with birds can view the lorikeets from outside the aviary.
Entry into “Lorikeets” is free with Aquarium admission. Nectar cups are $3.00 each. The Maritime Aquarium is located at 10 N Water St in Norwalk. Tel. (203) 852-0700.
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