​The sheer simplicity of the score was blockbuster brilliance.  It is both haunting and memorable. This ominous music masterfully epitomized the use of leitmotif by serving as a brief recurring sound to announce the presence of a shark. “Duunnn dun” will forever go down in cinematic history as a musical phrase that conjures up images of a bloodthirsty man-eating monster and has evolved into a pop culture phenomenon.


That successful score from Jaws set the standard for background music within shark films. Even educational documentaries are not immune to infusing a dangerous tone into otherwise harmless background music. While subtle in nature, this sort of music provokes a fearful mood within the audience. The result is powerful and extremely counteractive to educational messaging.
Sharks are constantly targeted with negative imagery even beyond the music. From biased and inaccurate news reporting, to sensationalized media stories, sharks can’t seem to shake off the perpetual villain stereotype. Unfortunately, the future of sharks in our oceans has hit a crossroad. Even the most subtle behaviors can have dramatic consequences for these animals. We must be vigilant with the narrative we are creating.


Study after study has taught us that a well-informed public possessing a positive attitude regarding a species is far more likely to support their conservation and actively engage in sustainable behaviors. Statistically, this demographic is also far more likely to address policymakers, donate to causes, and become an active champion for conservation.


With that said, our “More than Myth” campaign is dedicated to combatting the stereotypes with some positive shark imagery! 

Here's some images from our trip to Bimini last November.

Enjoy!

Here are some highlights from our shark research trip to Freeport, Bahamas last year. 

Enjoy!

Dr. Heather Blackall speaking about shark conservation and research at Shark Con 2017 in Tampa, FL. Heather is the President of Ocean's Daughter Conservation Alliance. ODCA focuses on shark conservation and education, specifically, the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

In the early stages of conceiving Ocean’s Daughter we had many inquire as to why we selected mermaids as one of our primary areas of messaging. As a global organization cemented in strong scientific doctrine, many suggested that this choice seemed to be a massive juxtaposition. The mere notion of embracing a mythical creature when promoting ocean literacy sparked some controversy. To be honest, that anticipated line of inquiry was actually the intended purpose. It would require an entire dissertation to trace the historical “origins” and key myths surrounding mermaids. Perhaps that is a task for another time! However, it is relevant to highlight a few significant examples to explain our stance.

Throughout the ages, mermaids have taken on contrasting roles. Some cultures such as those of Ancient Greece and Rome held sirens with extreme reverence. Multiple accounts exist within the literature that testifies to these creatures utilizing mesmerizing songs and hypnotic beauty to captivate men. This allure allegedly led to many a sailor’s death. The stories are contradicting in terms of intentions. Some believe sirens to have meticulously planned this outcome, while others suggest that mermaids failed to realize that the sailors could not breathe underwater. Some during this era believed that mermaids would literally suck the life out of humans. Other literary accounts such as The Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Anderson depict mermaids in a more innocent and curious light. As we all know, Disney heavily capitalized on this! Modern times brand mermaids as playful fantasy.

If one wanted to move away from mythology and fiction, there are a plethora of accounts rooted in a more historical realm. Pliny the Elder was a Roman scholar who described Nereids as “women with rough scaly bodies like fish” in Natural History. In a 5th Century AD book entitled Physiologus, a Greek unknown scholar dedicated a portion of the writing to portraying “The Nature of the Mermaid”. In 1493, Christopher Columbus recorded an encounter with three mermaids in his ship logs while sailing off the coast of the Dominican Republic. The widely accepted explanation is that Columbus actually mistook manatees for mermaids. In 1608, another explorer by the name of Henry Hudson also recorded an encounter with a mermaid in his ship’s journal while sailing through the Bering Sea off of the coast of Norway. In 1614, the infamous John Smith actually wrote about spotting a mermaid off of the coast of Massachusetts. Similar accounts are sprinkled throughout historical records by otherwise logical men. Yet despite these narratives, solid tangible evidence has consistently escaped scientists.

​Ocean’s Daughter Conservation Alliance has a team of professional mermaids available for performances and appearance at schools, assemblies, private events, community festivals, zoos, aquariums, and animal sanctuaries!We specialize in both dry and wet work! Our lead mermaid is the reigning International Conservation Mermaid, and was also crowned the official Mermaid of Gasparilla in 2016!

Ancient Mesopotamian culture chronicles the existence of a merman by the name of Oannes. Legend claims he would rise from the depths of the Persian Gulf every morning and instill knowledge, reasoning, and wisdom to mankind. As a result of his efforts, humans were equipped with cognitive tools that led to scientific advancements such as agriculture, medicine, astrology, the construction of cities, and written language. While historians consider Oannes a mere myth, one cannot deny that the contributions from this ancient culture are authentic. The advancements were so beyond anything the world had previously known that Mesopotamia is hallmarked as the cradle of civilization. We are not suggesting that a mermaid should be credited with such contributions, but the symbolism there is appealing. Our mission at Ocean’s Daughter Conservation Alliance is to formulate practical conservation solutions that benefit both humanity and wildlife through an innovative blend of education and science. By serving as a global ambassador organization, we envision conducting groundbreaking research with the aspiration of deepening our comprehension of marine life. To accomplish this task, sophisticated levels of cognition are paramount. Therefore it was logical to adopt a symbol from a world long ago that embodies both knowledge and wisdom. Naturally, in Ocean’s Daughter tradition, we had to put on our own creative twist on it!!!!

The purpose of this abbreviated lesson is to illustrate the numerous mermaid symbols across cultures and eras. At times, mermaids are labeled dangerous forces not to be reckoned with. They possess an inherent ferociousness that cannot be contained. At other times, mermaids represent extraordinary beauty with an almost supernatural charm. Other accounts leave readers with a sense of mystery. There is so much left unknown about these creatures. Here at Ocean’s Daughter Conservation Alliance, we do not adopt any particular stance on mermaids. Whether mermaid tails are authentic or mere tales are not for us to decide. Yet the parallels between their symbols and the characteristics of the oceans we are striving to protect are undeniable. In a way, mermaids are perfect metaphors for the various facets of the seas! So for that reason, why not mermaids?!?!

The most magical time of the year is upon us once again! Pinterest boards are swimming with all of the latest tutorials on preparing those perfectly shaped fondant shark fin cupcakes, how to construct the most realistic shark Jell-O cups, the ideal blends for ocean punch, and ideas for entertaining guests with a multitude of activities including those notorious seal themed games. Amity Island décor is selling out in party stores across the country as Cold Stone is gearing up to launch their annual Shark Frenzy sundaes. Of course you are doing all of the party planning in the comfort of those jawesome shark crochet socks you ordered off of Etsy to keep up with the latest in shark fashion! Seriously, how has Shark Week not yet been declared a national holiday?

Discovery Channel’s Shark Week is arguably one of the most successful television programs of the summer. With a loyal cult following, it has transitioned a series of nature documentaries into a pop culture phenomenon. Unfortunately, in recent years we are witnessing what ODCA headquarters likes to call the “Jurassic World Effect”. That notion of “bigger, louder, more teeth” is dominating the lineup. Each year the boundary is pushed a little more and the content becomes even more sensationalized. Who can forget the infamous Megalodon mockumentary? We all know that drama sells, ratings pay the bills, and ultimately it is all boils down to entertainment. Yet somewhere along the way shouldn’t there still be glimmers of authentic conservation messaging? Shark Week was conceptualized to educate and spread awareness for sharks.

These magnificent apex predators are constantly struggling to escape the bloodthirsty man-eating monster stereotype that Jaws so generously bestowed upon them. Other films like The Shallows, 47 Meters Down, and Sharknado only perpetuate the label. Alarmingly, Shark Week titles seem to follow this disturbing trend. What message is Discovery Channel really sending to the casual browser who flips through the guide only to read titles like “Devil Sharks”, “The Great Hammerhead Invasion”, and “Great White Shark Serial Killer Lives”? “Lair of the Sawfish” sounds like the makings of summer’s next Sci-Fi horror film. The titles certainly do not echo an animal worth protecting!

More than ever, sharks desperately need positive media exposure to help combat the misconceptions fueled through cinematic productions and fears instilled in the masses through inaccurate media reporting.
 
With a brand as enormous as Shark Week, why are we still relying on title entertainment and gimmicks to keep an audience engaged? Instead of putting marketing dollars towards pun-filled Hollywood narratives ("Sharks in the City"), shouldn’t we be marketing sharks as an apex predator worth saving? The current lineup and those of recent years does little more than portray sharks as villains plotting against humanity. Like it or not, the future of mankind is closely intertwined to the survival of sharks.

It is time for Shark Week to start making some real waves.  Can we please stop recycling the same tired content? Isle of Jaws is becoming the new Air Jaws. Discovery Channel employs some of the most talented videographers on the planet and consults with brilliant research minds. It is time to get a bit more creative and move beyond worn out sequels. Instead of analyzing the same series of shark attacks yet again, why not launch a new line of inquiry? How about investigating the disappearances of our deep water sharks as they are being brutally slaughtered for their livers to create cosmetics like lipstick? Want a little more Shark N Awe? Let’s showcase the true horrors of the finning industry. Visual imagery is one of the most powerful tools that a conservationist can utilize to convey a message.

Why can’t we get back to entertaining while also educating? There are so many shark species to choose from. How about a little more diversity! Unleash the power of a camera in a way that provokes thought and inspires meaningful change! 

Everyone knows there ain’t no party like a shark week party, but let’s walk away from that week-long fiesta with a compelling reason to care! Use the programming to evoke positive emotions towards sharks! We should be living every week like it is shark week if we want to save the oceans before we hit that point of no return! 

The annual re-enactment of Tampa Bay’s historic pirate invasion is upon us! On Saturday, January 28th, the Jose Gasparilla will lead an impressive fleet across Hillsborough Bay and sail towards downtown. Facing cannon fire and legendary pirates, the Mayor will be forced to surrender the Key to the defenseless city once the salty Krewe storms the Tampa Convention Center. To celebrate this monumental conquest, a Parade of Pirates ensues down Bayshore Boulevard where crowds in the hundreds of thousands gather to witness the third largest parade in the United States.  Beads and doubloons are thrown to cheering citizens who are eager to get their hands on some of the fabled booty!   


Yet in a town governed by pirates, there are bound to be a few mermaids! Westchase Freebooters adopted the mythical creature as their symbol in 2003. Alluring sirens are so vital to their origin story, that you can find them riding along at every parade. This year, the Mermaids of Gasparilla are excited to announce a new look! Under the direction of their Captain Eric Holt, Westchase Freebooters has collaborated with Ocean’s Daughter Conservation Alliance (ODCA) to train a team of elite professional mermaids to participate in both the pirate invasion and also serve as community ambassadors throughout the year! As part of this re-branding, MerrowFins Mermaid Tails by Matthew Quijano, has customized professional grade silicone tails that are reminiscent of the Splash era while simultaneously infusing pirate imagery!


We are pleased to introduce the team of exclusive mermaids!

From L to R:
Dr. Blackall is proud to be training the team of Freebooter Mermaids. She is the reigning International Conservation Mermaid, and was crowned the official Mermaid of Gasparilla in 2016. She possesses a PhD in biochemistry, and a M.S. in veterinary medicine. Her primary research areas revolve around animal assisted therapy, particularly psychoneuroimmunology of dolphins. Other passions include social learning theory of killer whales, crocodilian behavior, and shark genetics. In conservation circles, she is known as the #sharkweekmermaid!
 
Crystal is a Florida native, and was raised in the Tampa Bay area.  She is a proud graduate of the University of Tampa and is actively involved in various alumni events including homecoming activities and most recently the new entrepreneurship program and facility. She is also an ambassador for Best Buddies, the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She serves as a volunteer for the Gasparilla International Film Festival, and is also a sponsor of the Gasparilla Music festival.

Katie is a young professional originally hailing from New Jersey. She is loving life in Tampa Bay and enjoys environmental conservation. Her past experiences included traveling to Bimini, where she had the opportunity to swim with and learn about sharks. While there, she also participated in the Lionfish Bash, benefiting the Woody Foundation. 
 
Kelsey is passionate about the ocean and is especially interested in global conservation efforts.  She previously dedicated time to volunteering with Clearwater Marine Aquarium. She is a former competitive swimmer, and is active with IRONMAN. She enjoys participating in community events, and is extremely plugged into the Bay Area.
 
Allie has been instrumental in organizing the new team.  She is active in the vibrant Tampa social scene and many of you will recognize her from previous parade seasons! As a young professional, she aims to defy expectations and connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. In her downtime, she enjoys taking in local sporting events and music productions. Born and raised in Jacksonville, by way of the Midwest, she made southwest Florida her home in 2009. Allie is involved with various networking groups in the Bay Area. She is also an avid traveler!
 
To assist the mermaids in traveling from one event to another, they rely heavily on their “mer-handler” Greg. He is the C.F.O. of ODCA, and proud member of the Westchase Freebooters. He has a background in veterinary medicine and management, as well as a passion for sharks. Greg serves as the safety diver for all underwater activities and is also the chief videographer during research expeditions. When not in the field, he collaborates with local aquariums and assists with maintaining the tanks. Greg also works closely with dive charters and shops to educate on the importance of eco-friendly tourism.

With placement on float #7, be sure to watch for the official Mermaids of Gasparilla this Saturday! Outside of the invasion, the mermaids are available for conservation talks, public appearances, festivals, and community outreach programs.

Anti-captivity activists are celebrating a recent decision by NOAA that declares Lolita (a Southern Resident Killer Whale) be covered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Applying the ESA to a captive orca is a monumental step, but this unchartered territory needs to be navigated with scientific wisdom and careful consideration. Lolita has spent the past 44 years in captivity, largely residing at the Miami Seaquarium. She is believed to be one of the oldest captive orcas living in the United States.

As an organization, we are not against captivity. When housed properly, captive animals can lead psychologically sound, enriching, healthy, and rewarding lives. Please refer to our Blackfish essay. Yet, we do find that the circumstances in which Lolita is presently housed to be less than satisfactory. We do not support the criteria utilized to outline her current care. Her current tank is too small by expert suggested standards, and keeping her in the equivalent of solitude confinement is contradictory to how this species has evolved. Without question, her situation does require immediate attention. Yet this is a complicated scenario.

Many well-intentioned members of the public are calling for “release at all costs”. This new NOAA declaration actually opens the doors for such a lawsuit to emerge. Before going down that road, we STRONGLY urge everyone to temporarily check emotions at the door and consider the possible outcomes. As we are monitoring these events, we are viewing comments such as “Lolita can finally be reunited with her family” as reoccurring themes. This is a fairytale mentality. Sadly, this unscientific way of thinking will only get Lolita sentenced to a slow agonizing death. Remember Keiko’s fate? Let’s not make the same mistake twice!

Lolita has spent 44 years in total dependence on humans. She possesses intense bonds with her trainers and husbandry team. Sudden severing of such ties would psychologically and emotionally impact this animal on a tremendous level. The oceans can be a harsh and unforgiving environment. In the wild, orcas possess complex hunting strategies and work together in intricate formations to feed. Lolita does not possess exposure to these practices, nor support from fellow orcas. A new pod will not simply welcome her in because humans wish for it. For 44 years, her sushi grade food has been served up by mankind. She does not possess the necessary hunting skills to be successful in the wild. These basic survival skills were not cultivated. Furthermore, her immune system has adapted to highly filtered water. Exposure to high levels of toxins, pollution, parasites, and other contaminants found in our oceans would be detrimental to an animal that has spent so long in captivity. Releasing this animal into the wild or a sea pen is not the solution. Energy, time, and money would be better served (and in Lolita’s best interest) to create a more enriching, bigger, and conducive captive environment. If the Seaquarium cannot provide that, then maybe another organization should step in.

If the outlined reasons are not sufficient enough to protect Lolita from release, the ESA will have their hands full with their own ruling. Section 9 prohibits against "take" of a protected animal. This circumstance is unique in that the animal is already in captivity. A legal case could be made that seizing a protected animal and releasing it into the wild is a violation of this "take" clause. The waters are muddy and regardless of where a person stands on captivity, everyone needs to focus efforts on handling this tricky situation in the best interest of Lolita. Decisions need to be rooted in science and veterinary knowledge instead of emotion and delusion.