VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The Virginia Aquarium is mourning the loss of an elderly otter. 16-year-old Tippy, a North American river otter, died on Monday.
In September, staff at the aquarium found that Tippy was losing weight despite a normal appetite. The otter underwent a procedure that led to the diagnosis of intestinal lymphoma, the aquarium said in a news release. He was given treatment to support his digestive system and target the lymphoma.
Though Tippy responded well to the treatment at first, the aquarium said his condition deteriorated over the weekend.
After a "thoughtful and careful" study of his condition, the aquarium's veterinary and animal care team humanely euthanized the otter.
“Our staff have cared for Tippy for nearly 16 years. His antics and vibrant persona are missed,” said Cynthia Whitbred-Spanoulis, president and CEO of the Virginia Aquarium. “I am so very proud of our dedicated team and thank each of them for their compassionate care.”
Tippy was born at the Sedgwick County Zoo in Kansas in 2007. He joined the Virginia Aquarium in 2008. His trainers described him as inquisitive and a problem solver, and said he enjoyed ice cakes for his birthday and holidays, the release said.
Tippy's favorite food was herring, and he loved to play with his fake kelp.
According to the aquarium, North American River otters typically live eight or nine years in their natural habitat. Under human care, they can live well into their teens.
The aquarium said the otters are native to the area, but their habitat range is impacted by habitat loss and pollution.
