Hardy and Tanu Meet for the First Time!

As you might recall, Vancouver Aquarium took in little Hardy, now four months old, after he was found alone near Vancouver Island this summer. He's doing really well in his new home and has now made a new friend in 13-year-old resident otter Tanu! Vancouver Aquarium writes:

“It was a very successful introduction; even better than we anticipated,” said Kristi Heffron, senior marine mammal trainer at Vancouver Aquarium. “It took Hardy a moment or two to realize that Tanu had joined him in the Finning Habitat. Then Tanu went to Hardy and put him on her chest, just like a mother would do to her pup. There was lots of sniffing and exploring and some vocalizing – all natural otter behaviour. After a little while, we saw them both swimming, grooming, and eating independently. They’re quite comfortable together.”

Vancouver Aquarium has a lot going on for Sea Otter Awareness Week this year, so if you're in the area, be sure to stop by! Otherwise, click here to find an event near you. And catch up on our previous posts on Hardy by visiting his tag!