Don't be Deceived, They're Going to Leave

It’s known that the marine creatures in the Art of Deception exhibit at Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego, are good at hiding, but seekers of these deceptive animals won’t be able to find them at all after September 20, when the exhibit officially closes. 

Art of Deception opened in May 2005 and encouraged visitors to discover creative camouflage strategies that marine organisms use for survival.  A focal point for education programs aimed at pre-K and toddlers, Art of Deception also caught the interest of older kids as they discovered how animals such as the two-spotted octopus, frogfish, chameleon, and round rays can conceal themselves within their surrounding environments to hide from predators and hunt for prey.

Once the final game of hide-and-seek ends in September, the aquarium will begin preparations for its newest exhibit. Set to open November 14, this new attraction highlights the life and biology of majestic seahorses, seadragons, and their relatives.

“I am thrilled with all the positive feedback we’ve received over the years about Art of Deception and we’re proud to carry on its educational message in our new children’s book What Color Would You Be to Hide in the Sea?” said Nigella Hillgarth, executive director of Birch Aquarium at Scripps.

The book, What Color Would You Be to Hide in the Sea?, is sold exclusively by Birch Aquarium at Scripps and combines stunning photos, beautiful colors, and plenty of insightful information about these fascinating creatures. It makes a great gift and is a wonderful tribute to the Art of Deception. The book can be purchased at the aquarium bookshop or online (hyperlink).

--Caitlin Denham