This Is My New Little Buddy!

Via Aquarium of the Pacific, which writes:

The Aquarium is proud to partner with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otter Surrogacy program. Thanks to the generous support of donors, this program pairs orphaned otter pups with surrogate otter moms to teach them survival skills for an eventual release into the wild.

A 10-week old rescued pup was paired with our most experienced surrogate mom Millie, but proved quite independent and did not bond well initially. Because of this, the animal care team had to step in and assist him with grooming 3-4 times daily to keep his coat healthy.

Grooming a sea otter pup is labor-intensive, requiring patience and meticulous attention to detail. Your support ensures that we can adapt to the needs of each surrogate pup.

Once stabilized, the pup was introduced to two other adult females, Cee and Suri and formed a bond with Suri. They spend the days socializing, foraging, grooming, and resting together.

The animal care team will continue to monitor his behavioral milestones in hopes that he will be released to the ocean next spring by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otter Surrogacy Program.

You can help pups have the best chance at returning to the ocean by donating at [this link] today. Thank you!