Bringing up just one baby is a fulltime job.
So, spare a thought for two supermums, Kelly Timmins and Natasha Christie, who have raised hundreds – and have a jaws-dropping 58 newborns to look after.
However, they’re not your average panicked parents.
The ‘shark mums’ of Atlantis, The Palm help to look after the newborn sharks and sting rays at The Lost Chambers aquarium, where they run one of the world’s most unique nurseries.
This year the pair have welcomed 15 baby sharks and sting rays, as well as countless sea jellies and horseshoe crabs.
And, since January 2020, 25 young Arabian carpet sharks and three honeycomb rays have been released into the ocean as part of an ongoing initiative with Dubai Municipality.
Last month, on World Oceans Day (June 8), the Lost Chambers team celebrated being awarded accreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), making them the first in the region to receive the prestigious accolade championing their first-class standards on animal care, conservation and education.
Currently there are 58 baby sharks and six rays in the bustling nursery, each of which are individually fed and monitored on a daily basis.
And, just like any parent knows, caring for them is a round-the-clock operation.
Natasha, director of The Lost Chambers, has worked at the aquarium since 2008, and during her 12 years has overseen the births of over 200 sharks and stingrays.
“We currently have three honeycomb stingrays, one porcupine stingray, two eagle rays and close to 60 Arabian carpet sharks in the nursery,” revealed Natasha.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Trip with Vakava
A new brunch for foodies and fiesta hunters
THE BEACH HOUSE POOL DAY
You voted it as your favourite Seafood Restaurant at the What’s On Awards in May. Does it still reign supreme?
Tea by the sea
St Regis teams with Tchaba Tea for a special afternoon collab
TAIKUN
Not for the fainthearted, Taikun sizzles with its new dinner and a show
LA CASA DEL TANGO
A round of applause or a slow hand clap for this new dinner and a show concept in DIFC?
IKIGAI
If there’s one thing Dubai isn’t short of it’s Japanese restaurants. So, is there room for one more?
HOW NOT TO LOSE YOUR COOL THIS SUMMER
This is a city that works hard, plays hard, but, on a boiling hot day, can feel like hard work. So look at this month’s magazine as a little cooling comfort pack to see you through the summer season. Let yourself be whisked off to our favourite indoor bars and hideaways – with AC, summery feels and maybe an ice-cold drink to keep you chill. Then dream of refreshing dishes to fill your belly. You’ve never had it so cool.
CATCH
A surf and turf showdown every Saturday
CARNA
Very high steaks at SLS Dubai
BEEN THERE, DONE THAT
Feel like you’ve seen all that the capital has to offer? Think again…