The Virginia Aquarium’s animal ambassadors are animals who generally live behind the scenes but are included in education programs as “ambassadors” who represent their species, allowing educators to share these animals’ stories and highlight the vital role each species plays in the natural world. Guests can meet these ambassadors during daily programs or on the new behind‑the‑scenes tour at the Bob & Leslie Fort Animal Ambassador Center.
Construction on the center was completed by June 2025, and the Aquarium’s animal care team has been hard at work since then, setting up habitats and welcoming new ambassadors. Acquiring these animals often involves years of planning, coordination, and patience. We work closely with wildlife rehabilitators, zoos, aquariums, and Species Survival Plan (SSP) coordinators through the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) to ensure we’re bringing in the most appropriate and meaningful ambassadors for the program. Over the past year, the team has been thrilled to welcome a few new furry and feathery creatures.
Mahogany
In February 2025, the AZA’s SSP coordinator for spectacled owls reached out to the Aquarium notifying the team that an owl was sitting on an egg and asked if the staff would be interested in the chick as a future ambassador, which the team accepted. On March 10, the egg hatched at the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans. Because this owl would serve as an ambassador, the owl was given time to be raised by the parents but also was partially hand‑reared by zookeepers. This approach helps the young owl form healthy natural bonds while also becoming comfortable around people.
Once the owl was old enough to travel, discussions began about transportation logistics. While many animals fly on commercial airlines—much like a dog traveling cross‑country—the timing was difficult. It was late November, and holiday air travel was unpredictable. To ensure the owl’s safety, both care teams decided to drive the owl instead. The Audubon team drove north with the owl, while the Virginia Aquarium team drove south, meeting in the middle outside of Atlanta for the hand-off.
Upon arrival at the Aquarium, the male owl started quarantine, a standard for new Aquarium residents, and was named Mahogany after a tree commonly found in his native habitat. After his quarantine period, Mahogany moved into his new home in the animal ambassador center. His care team quickly learned that he is incredibly curious, as he often perches near the front of his habitat, watching staff work. While Mahogany is still in training for public programs, guests often catch a glimpse of him during the new behind‑the‑scenes tour.
