We'll Miss You, Lootas

Seattle Aquarium announced the sad news last night, that their matriarch sea otter, Lootas, has passed away at the age of 23. Seattle Aquarium writes:

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the death of Lootas, our matriarch sea otter. As you may know, Lootas, which means “Wave Eater” in the Haida language, was orphaned in Alaska after her mother was killed in a boating accident in 1997. She was hand-raised here at the Aquarium, went on to become an integral part of our sea otter breeding program and successfully raised three pups.

Early yesterday morning, Lootas let her caregivers know that she had reached the end of her time and was provided with a humane passing. At over 23 years old, she was quite advanced in age—a testament to the exceptional care she received throughout her lifetime. Her remains will reside at the UW Burke Museum where she will continue to contribute to education and conservation. Even as she grew older, Lootas never ceased to impress and delight staff, volunteers, members and visitors with her energy and tenacity. She will be deeply missed.