Four tropical birds, new tortoises, sugar gliders and chinchilla debut in CMA’s newest animal experiences
(CLEARWATER, FL – JUNE 5, 2026) – Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is spreading its wings in an exciting new way with the debut of Wings & Wildlife, a brand-new habitat introducing guests to several varieties of tropical birds and tortoises, as well as an Animal Connections Village with two sugar gliders, a chinchilla, and the addition of Benjamin the Virginia opossum.
The vibrant new habitat welcomes four charismatic tropical birds who recently arrived at CMA after the closure of Miami Seaquarium, where animal care teams worked to find safe, permanent homes for the animals. Their arrival marks an exciting milestone for CMA, expanding its resident family beyond marine life and introducing guests to an entirely new species group at the aquarium. The Wings & Wildlife habitat is sponsored by Universal Parking, CMA’s parking partner. Several tortoises were also welcomed from Miami Seaquarium, as well as others that were rescued here in Clearwater.
The new Animal Connections Village will feature two new sugar gliders, a chinchilla and Benji the opossum. The new habitat is built to look like a Key West village of colorful pastel houses, highlighted by gingerbread trim. The new habitat will be sponsored by CMA’s catering partner, Puff ‘n Stuff Catering.
Wings & Wildlife offers guests an up-close look at some of nature’s most colorful and intelligent animals, complete with custom-built perches, interactive enrichment spaces and specially designed habitats that allow each animal’s unique personality to shine.
“These animals needed a new home, and we are proud to provide them with exceptional care and a safe, enriching environment,” said Joe Handy, CEO of CMA. “The opening of Wings & Wildlife and the Animal Connections Village represent an exciting evolution for Clearwater Marine Aquarium as we continue expanding the ways we connect guests to wildlife, conservation and animal rescue. These two new habitats reflect CMA’s continued commitment to animal rescue, rehabilitation, conservation and providing lifelong care for animals in need.”
The habitat officially introduces four tropical bird species to CMA for the first time: a green-winged macaw, Sulphur-crested cockatoo, umbrella cockatoo and red-lored Amazon parrot. Additional species are expected to join the habitat in the coming months.
Guests can now meet the new feathered residents:
Big Bird – A striking Green-winged Macaw and the second-largest species of macaw in the world, Big Bird is known for his bright red feathers and booming squawks that can be heard from up to three miles away. Approximately 30 years old, he loves peanuts, dancing to pop music from Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter, and greeting guests with enthusiastic “Hello!” and “Hiiiiii!” vocalizations. Although he never learned to fly, his playful personality and joyful spirit make him larger than life.
Powder – This affectionate sulphur-crested cockatoo is famous for his cuddly nature and soft white feathers. His name comes from the powder-like substance cockatoos naturally produce to help protect their feathers from rain and moisture. Around 25 years old, Powder enjoys pistachios, bananas and sunflower seeds and can live well into his 90s.
Skipper – A critically endangered umbrella cockatoo, Skipper may be shy at first, but he quickly steals hearts when he fans out his signature umbrella-shaped crest feathers. Approximately 20 to 25 years old, Skipper enjoys almonds and apples and has formed a close friendship with fellow bird resident Mr. Thumbs.
Mr. Thumbs – The smallest — and arguably loudest — member of the flock, Mr. Thumbs is a red-lored Amazon parrot with a big personality. Known for whistling, making kissing sounds and even purring like a cat, he delights guests with his vocal talents and playful antics. He loves sunflower seeds, fruit and spending time alongside Skipper.
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Media Contact: Marsha Strickhouser | mstrickhouser@CMAquarium.org | (727) 242-0770
- About Clearwater Marine Aquarium
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is a 501(c)(3) non profit working marine rescue center dedicated to inspiring the human spirit through leadership in education, research, rescue, rehabilitation and release. With a mission to preserve the environment and its marine life, CMA is home to rescued dolphins, harbor seals, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays and more. In 2024, CMA opened the Dr. James “Buddy” Powell Manatee Rehabilitation Center, and now treats manatee patients in coordination with the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP). Through Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute (CMARI), CMA conducts important global research focused on protecting manatees, North Atlantic right whales and sea turtles. The major motion picture Dolphin Tale (2011) and its sequel Dolphin Tale 2 (2014) features the true stories of rescued resident dolphins Winter and Hope, inspiring millions around the world. The mission and potential to change people’s lives differentiates Clearwater Marine Aquarium from any other aquarium in the world. CMAquarium.org.
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We believe in preserving our environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life; environmental education; research; and conservation.
A Florida non-profit 501(c)(3) organization