AUGUSTA -- Youngsters got a taste of "Life in a Tide Pool" Tuesday as the Maine State Museum kicked off a week of "February Vacation Science Explorations."

Fifteen school-aged children and their parents gathered in front of the museum's simulated coastal scenery Tuesday afternoon and passed around sea stars, sea urchins, seaweed and other aquatic creatures.

Museum educator Gigi Hutchins explained how tidepool inhabitants survive, and what dangers they face in their environment.

Children shot their hands up, responding to questions about the tide pool environment.

Are tide pools salt water or fresh water?

The answer: salt.

Do sea stars have eyes at the end of their rays?

Yes.

Who are the predators that prey on tide-pool inhabitants?

Humans and seagulls are among them.

The explorations continue Wednesday with a discussion on mammals, an amphibian and reptile tutorial on Thursday and an explanation of "Flying with Feathers" on tap for Friday.

The events each start at 2 p.m. and last 30 minutes.

The explorations are no additional charge with paid admission.

Call 287-2301 or visit www.mainestatemuseum.org for more details.