Meet Opie, the new otter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium

CLEARWATER, Fla. (BLOOM) — The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is excited to welcome Opie, a charming North American river otter, to its Otter Oasis exhibit, joining veteran otters Walle and Boomer.

After surviving a dog attack and receiving initial treatment at the Nature World Wildlife Sanctuary, Opie was transferred to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium for further care. The young male otter has quickly adapted and is now sharing his new home with 13-year-old Walle and 4-year-old Boomer.

“Opie’s arrival at CMA marks not just another rescue but a chance to engage people with the vital stories of our wildlife,” said Kelly Martin, vice president of zoological care at the aquarium. Martin emphasized the importance of respecting wildlife and their habitats, pointing out that interactions with humans can often have unintended negative consequences.

Named after the late Mary Opall, the revered director of the Nature World Wildlife Sanctuary, Opie’s name honors her legacy in wildlife conservation. Opall, who passed away from cancer, had a significant impact on wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts during her lifetime.

While Opie has been deemed non-releasable due to his familiarity with humans and the nature of his injuries, he will serve as an educational ambassador, teaching visitors about the challenges river otters face in the wild and the importance of conservation.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium continues its mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine life, with Opie’s story adding a poignant chapter to its efforts. Visitors can now see Opie during his enrichment sessions and learn more about the species and the aquarium’s work.

For more information about visiting Opie and learning more about the aquarium’s conservation initiatives, visit www.cmaquarium.org.

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