North Carolina Aquarium Mourns The Unexpected Loss Of A 220 Pound Shark

"Nursey" the shark was notorious for trying to hide from the prying eyes of tourists. And he will be missed. A North Carolina aquarium mourns the unexpected loss of this 220 pound shark. He spent 16 years at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. And he was a big boy at 7'7".

Nursey was part of the "Graveyard of the Atlantic" exhibit at the North Carolina aquarium. You will find the place in Manteo which is about 190 miles east of Raleigh according to our source, the Charlotte Observer. Aquarium officials wrote in their social media post, “Because nurse sharks are nocturnal, he could often be found in the replica shipwreck. Guests and staff enjoyed his lazy swims along the sand and seeing him peek out from the wreck. He will be missed.”

The 220 pound animal was about 22 years old. Officials say that's about the life span of this type of shark. In another quote published in the Charlotte Observer, the aquarium says “Members of the animal care and veterinary teams performed a medical exam last week. The exam was successful, but Nursey’s recovery from the exam did not go as expected,Eventually, he became unresponsive and passed away. The animal care and veterinary teams did all they could to help him recover and are heartbroken by the outcome. … We do not yet know the cause of his decline".

It's not clear to me if Nursey was born in captivity or not. He came to the North Carolina Aquarium via a similar facility in Virginia. Despite his elusiveness, Nursey was reportedly well loved and even had his own social media following. Rest in peace Nursey. Hopefully you inspired people to help protect the species.

Who said you had to travel far to discover some of the best islands. That's right, going to an island doesn't always mean leaving the country. Sometimes, going to the islands is about embracing what is in your own backyard. America has some of the most beautiful and unique islands throughout the country. Especially on the southeast coast.

Travel + Leisure has released its "America's Best" for 2022 and we're taking a look into the best islands in the continental U.S. Of course there are great spots in Florida talked about all of the time. But, can't forget about Georgia, South Carolina, and right here in North Carolina. Readers rated islands based on their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value. Now, we're here to share that North Carolina's Outer Banks made the list! Sounds like the Tar Heel state has plenty to offer this year. Check out what other islands made Travel + Leisure's 2022 best islands in the continental U.S.

Enjoy 11 miles of white-sand beaches, golf courses, and luxury hotels on your island stay.

Take a fairy from the mainland and end up exploring this beauty. This island also welcomes your canine to enjoy in the fun with you. Rent a bike, drink some beer, enjoy some food, and relax on Block Island.

Also known as Captiva's sister island, Sanibel is your spot to enjoy the beach and even a shell museum! 

Captiva Island is known for its low-key vibe and beaches with all the seashells you'll ever need. Enjoy a vacation home or stay at a hotel during your Captiva trip. 

We all know and love the Florida Keys. Fishers, boaters, drinkers, and so much more on they keys. This is also the home of the only living coral barrier reef in the United States. 

Another Florida destination is Amelia Island. Visitors enjoy the island's casual vibe and natural beauty. Easily accessible by car, this island attracts beach lovers and history lovers. 

This is one of South Carolina's prime island destinations. Thanks to the beautiful beaches, tons of golf courses, and resorts its no wonder it made this list.

Head to Martha's Vineyard for an island oasis. Enjoy the cliffs dropping down into the Atlantic Ocean, storybook inns, and a quaint fishing village during your visit. There are also lively bars and restaurants for a fine night on the town. 

Although Acadia National Park covers most of this 100-square-mile island, visitors can also enjoy time biking and hiking all over. There are annual music and food festivals to enjoy and tons of little towns with locals. 

That's right, the Outer Banks is No. 6. This 175-mile-long chain of barrier islands is home to some of the most amazing beaches. You might even get the chance to see wild Spanish Mustangs on your visit if you're lucky. 

Enjoy nature trails and wonderful beaches on the Golden Isles. But, you will also get the chance to experience boast museums, golf courses, historic sites, and luxury hotels on the barrier islands. 

Don't have to go to Puerto Rico to enjoy San Juan. Located between Seattle and Vancouver, enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and whale-watching. You'll also be able to find farm-to-table meals, delicious wine from Washington State, galleries, and spas. 

This charming little island has everything to enjoy from the rose-trellised cottages to the cobblestoned streets and scenic bike rides. There are tons of dining options you'll also enjoy during your time. 

South Carolina coming in again. Kiawah Island, near Charleston, is a popular destination for golfers. Bike to the beaches for sightings of dolphins and nesting sea turtles, or just watch the waves from an oceanfront room at one of the hotels and resorts on the island. 

Making it to the No. 1 spot is Mackinac Island! About 80% of this four-square-mile island on Lake Huron is protected as a state park. The downtown area has many restaurants, fudge shops, and galleries to enjoy. There are also several golf courses and historic spots on the island you can learn more about. 

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