1. Rescue and Transport:
* Respond to calls: The aquarium receives reports of stranded or injured sea otters from the public, wildlife officials, and partners.
* Assess the situation: They evaluate the otter's condition to determine if it needs immediate care.
* Safely transport: Trained staff use specialized equipment to safely capture and transport the otter to the aquarium's Sea Otter Surgeries & Rehabilitation Center.
2. Veterinary Care and Rehabilitation:
* Initial assessment: Veterinarians conduct a thorough examination, including blood tests, X-rays, and ultrasound.
* Treatment: They treat injuries, infections, and malnutrition, providing medication and supportive care as needed.
* Nutrition: They feed the otters a specially formulated diet of seafood and supplements.
* Physical therapy: They help otters regain strength and coordination through swimming exercises and enrichment activities.
3. Socialization and Behavioral Enrichment:
* Socialization: If possible, they pair orphaned otters with others to encourage social development and natural behaviors.
* Enrichment: They provide a stimulating environment with toys, hiding places, and foraging opportunities to keep the otters mentally engaged.
4. Release Back to the Wild:
* Preparation: They monitor the otters' health and behavior closely to ensure they are ready for release.
* Release site selection: They carefully choose a suitable habitat with abundant food and suitable water conditions.
* Release procedure: They gradually acclimate the otters to the wild before releasing them.
5. Monitoring and Research:
* Tracking: They use radio transmitters and other methods to track the otters after release to monitor their survival and success in the wild.
* Research: They conduct ongoing research to better understand sea otter health, behavior, and conservation needs.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium's Sea Otter Program is a critical part of efforts to conserve this endangered species. Their work not only helps orphaned and injured otters, but also contributes valuable knowledge to the long-term survival of the species.