Whale Bus Topics

OUTRAGEOUS OTTERS
Fun-loving sea and river otters are the focus of this presentation. Learn about the aquatic adaptations and playful antics of these species with activities and specimens to help students understand how they eat, the importance of the kelp forest habitat, and why they sometimes have purple teeth. (Pre-K to 6th grade; show and tell discussion)

PLAYFUL PINNIPEDS
Amusing seals, sea lions, and walruses have unique and interesting traits that we explore in this presentation. By examining taxidermied mounts, pelts and bones, students learn to distinguish seals from sea lions, and learn about the natural history and behavior of these animals they may see in the area. (Pre-K to 6th grade; show and tell discussion)

WONDERFUL WHALES
Beautiful, mysterious, and magnificent, whales fascinate many of us. Learn about different types of cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) by examining specimens, including baleen and bones from different species. Participants second grade and up assemble the skeleton from a pilot whale; younger grades perform "whale dress up" and whale length activities. (Pre-K to 6th grade; show and tell discussion)

MARINE MAMMALS OF CALIFORNIA
Many species of marine mammals frequent the California coast, including seals, sea lions, sea otters, whales and dolphins. In this comprehensive overview, learn about their natural history and where to see them. (1st to 6th grade; slide show)

MARINE MAMMAL EXPLORATION
By comparing furs and skulls, exploring different adaptations, and discovering environmental threats, students study marine mammals in a cooperative, interactive style, which includes some reading and writing. Prerequisite: Basic marine mammal background. (4th to 12th grade; show and tell discussion)

MARINE CAREERS
With increasing concern about the environment, there is heightened interest in marine sciences. Let us introduce your students to the range of careers in marine science. Through hands-on labs, students experience techniques marine scientists employ during their workday. (7th to 12th grade; slide show)

ADVENTURES IN ANATOMY
Humans and marine mammals share many similar anatomical characteristics, yet they have adapted over time to thrive in different environments.  Compare and contrast bones, skulls, and skeletal structures from seals, sea lions, sea otters, manatees, whales and humans.  This program is designed to correspond with 7th Grade Live Science Standards.  (6th-12th grade)

The Whale Bus Guidelines and Rates

Program length: One hour (45 minutes for Pre-K/K).
Group size: Up to 40 students for 1st - 12th grades. Up to 30 students for Pre-K/K.We can teach up to four presentations in one day, reaching up to 160 students.
Rates: Schools, non-profits: 1 Presentation $140 each ($120 Pre-K/K);
2 Presentations $130 each ($110 Pre-K/K);
3-4 Presentations $120 each ($100 Pre-K/K)
General Public: $140/hour
2 or 3 presentation minimum in certain areas.

Travel fees: Fees are based on round trip miles calculated using the government mileage reimbursement rate to your location from The Marine Mammal Center plus any bridge toll.

All prices subject to change without notice.

How to schedule a program