UPDATE: On July 24, the Vancouver Aquarium announced that the sea otter pup will be named Hardy. The aquarium said the name Kasa was a close second.
Exciting news: You voted and we’re happy to announce the tiny male sea otter pup in the care of our Marine Mammal Rescue…
Posted by Vancouver Aquarium on Monday, July 24, 2017
The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Centre is looking for help in naming a sea otter pup that has been in its care since June 25.
The male pup, who is estimated to be two months old, was taken to the centre after some people saw him swimming alone in open water off northern Vancouver Island. Since he got to the centre, the sea otter has received round-the-clock care, which includes feeding, bathing and grooming.
The Marine Mammal Rescue Centre said he has been gaining weight steadily. He has also grown stronger and is more active. The sea otter is now grooming himself, exploring underwater and learning to dive.
WATCH RAW VIDEO: The sea otter pup being cared for by Marine Mammal Rescue Centre staff and volunteers. The animal is fed every couple hours and also takes a swim as part of its routine. Caregivers also help to groom the animal. Credit: Vancouver Aquarium
The Marine Mammal Rescue Centre is inviting the public to choose from these three names:
- Hardy: The tiny male otter pup was found swimming along off northern Vancouver Island, and first taken to the District of Port Hardy for initial treatment.
- Kasa: In Kwak?wala ? the language of the Kwakwa?ka?’wakw First Nations on the northeast coast of Vancouver Island ? ??asa is the word for sea otter.
- Masik: Also in Kwak?wala, ma?si’?w is the word for large sea urchins
One participant from the entries will receive a four-pack admission to the Vancouver Aquarium and a Sea Otter Aquadopt kit.
To enter the contest, click here. The winner will be announced on July 24 on the Vancouver Aquarium’s Facebook and Twitter pages.
Alexa Huffman
