ROYAL OAK, Mich. – A beloved sea otter at the Detroit Zoo named Ollie died on Dec. 30, 2023, after a brief and sudden illness.
The zoo’s veterinary and animal care teams worked to keep her comfortable, provided intensive care, and spoke with experts who specialize in treating sea otters. The zoo said her condition deteriorated quickly and the decision was made to euthanize her.
Ollie was 13 years old. She was rescued along the California coast when she was two weeks old and came to the Detroit Zoo in 2021.
“She was truly a special otter who captured the hearts of staff and guests alike. Described as “perfect in every way” by her caretakers, she was extremely smart, loved snacking on soft-shelled crabs, and enjoyed keeping her fur coat extra fluffy through daily grooming,” the zoo said on Facebook.
The cause of her illness has not yet been determined. Additional tests are pending and the zoo hopes to understand how it happened. The zoo will continue to monitor the other sea otters, Monte and Finn.
“We are heartbroken by this loss, and we kindly ask that you keep our staff in your thoughts during this difficult time. Ollie will be missed by all who knew her,” the zoo said.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ollie, a beloved sea otter. Rescued along the California...
Posted by Detroit Zoo on Wednesday, January 3, 2024