Otterly Amazing

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Otterly Amazing

Tom Wagner, Florida Aquarium

Published: April 8, 2009

When The Florida Aquarium first opened, it soon discovered a need existed when it came to local river otters. Biologists started receiving phone calls about injured and orphaned otters in need of rehabilitation.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and veterinarians are usually the first to respond when otters are found injured or orphaned. These agencies work with The Florida Aquarium so otters needing care and a place to recover can get the help they need quickly and efficiently.

Senior biologist Adam Duff explains the procedure upon their arrival.

"Many often arrive in a coma," he said. "We give them fluids, increase their blood sugar, give them medicine, and as they recuperate, give them food, get rid of parasites, provide vaccinations and make sure they get plenty of rest and time to heal."

This process can sometimes take months and months. The longer an otter is away from its natural habitat the more difficult it can be to return them to the wild.

Their webbed back feet and strong tails make them excellent swimmers and guests can often see them doing underwater flips and barrel rolls in their exhibit in the Wetlands Gallery.

Otters which may be released are not put on exhibit in Wetlands. Instead, they have pools in back in the animal medical area, which give them a chance to swim, climb and work on any physical rehab they may need. It also provides some excellent enrichment for the otter.

The Florida Aquarium had its first otter released back into the wild for this year after being brought in with injuries consistent with being struck by a car. Because of the quick recovery time, this otter was a perfect candidate for returning to the wild. A location in North Tampa was found and a successful return to the wild brought on cheers from biologists and onlookers.

A common misconception occurs when people come across young otters without any sign of their mother.

"When you see pups alone, it may be our natural reaction to try and help them," says Duff. "It is better to stand back and wait to see if the mother otter returns."

In addition, people can try and protect the land found around waterways.

"It's also a good idea to protect the land near streams, rivers and other bodies of water," he said. "These areas tend to be the homes and hunting ground for many different kinds of animals including river otters."

Protecting habitats also tends to ensure the waterways remain healthy, meaning cleaner water and fewer pollutants which travel from small streams and rivers down into bays and estuaries. All of these ecosystems are interconnected and doing what we can to preserve and protect them also helps the animals living in and around them. Being good residents of Florida can also mean being good stewards of our natural environment.

If you come across an injured otter, please call Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission or The Florida Aquarium so they can receive the treatment they need.

Assistance and support from our guests make these programs successful. If you are interested in making a difference, please call 813-367-4018.

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