Rescued otters found refuge here

On October 17, the New York Aquarium welcomed a pair of southern sea otters to its Sea Cliffs exhibit.

Two females were rescued in California at a young age and were considered unsuitable for release as puppies. Before arriving at Coney Island, they were cared for at other Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited facilities.

“These two otters have incredible stories and we are excited to see how well they are settling into their new home,” said Aquarium Director Dr. Lee Ann Clayton. “As part of our commitment to protecting marine wildlife, we are proud that the New York Aquarium has participated in the Southern Sea Otter Rescue and Rehabilitation Program along with other AZA-accredited aquariums.”

Southern sea otters are classified as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act and are protected by the U.S. Marine Mammal Conservation Act and international treaties.

Since 1991, 11 rescued sea otters have lived in the aquarium.