Featured Image Credit: Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium had to make a heartbreaking decision this week regarding one of their leading ladies. In a blog, the world renowned facility announced the passing of Gracie the Southern sea otter.
Surrounded by the people who loved her most and that cared for her around the clock, Gracie was humanely euthanized. Most likely due to her old age, the team noticed that her health began to rapidly decline before the holiday season. Passing just a few days shy of her 20th birthday, Gracie was not only the oldest Southern sea otter at the Georgia Aquarium, but in human care as well.
The Georgia Aquarium put together a video remembering their perfect pup:
Found at only two weeks old, she was abandoned in Cayucos, California. Unfortunately, this the fate for many sea otter pups. Gracie was whisked away to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where she was rehabilitated and eventually released into Morro Bay. Unable to forage for herself, Gracie was found dehydrated and underweight just two days later. Deemed non-releasable, the adorable otter found her forever home in 2005 at the Atlanta-based aquarium. Joined by a male fluffy friend named Oz, the furry duo was an instant delight. Gracie graced visitors with educational experiences and lots of laughter for over a decade.
Dennis Christen, Senior Director of Zoological Operations, Animal Training, released a quote saying, “We were privileged to have Gracie with us since the opening of Georgia Aquarium and her longevity is a true testament to the excellent care she received throughout her lifetime by all those who cared for her. Her decade with us provided our animal care and veterinary staff with the ability to conduct advanced monitoring, and to learn vital information about her, southern sea otters and other small marine mammals.” Christen also lead the team that managed Gracie’s care during her 11 years at the Georgia Aquarium.
The Georgia Aquarium eloquently said, “Loss is never easy. Gracie touched so many with her life, her rescue story, and her uniqueness. She inspired many to care about her species and the environments they inhabit. We will miss our Perfect One, immensely…”
There is no doubt that Gracie will be greatly missed.