The New York Aquarium is expanding its family with the addition of two adult female Southern sea otters, and you’d be hard pressed to find a cuter duo.
These West Coast transplants made their way cross-country and now reside at the aquarium’s Sea Cliffs exhibit. When they were rescued from the Cali coast as pups, they were deemed non-releasable. Prior to their NYC move, Pumpkin and Clover were under the care of Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited aquariums.
It goes without saying, but NYC families are pleased to learn these furry expats have made their way to Brooklyn and are ready to say hello to visitors!
Meet the New York Aquarium sea otters
“These two otters have incredible stories, and we are pleased to see how well they are settling into their new home,” said Dr. Leigh Ann Clayton, director of the New York Aquarium. “As part of our commitment to protecting marine wildlife, we are proud the New York Aquarium has participated in the southern sea otter rescue and rehabilitation program with other AZA-accredited aquariums.”
Southern sea otters are listed as a threatened species under the United States Endangered Species Act (ESA) and are protected by the United States Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and international treaties, according to the attraction.
They’re key players in the Pacific Ocean ecosystem, as they’re instrumental in keeping the sea urchin population in check. However, it’s estimated that there are only 3,000 of these gorgeous creatures left in the wild. All rescue and rehabilitation work with sea otters is conducted with United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) oversight.
Like the rest of the zoos and aquariums in the city and state, the New York Aquarium is steadfast in its mission to protect all of its creatures within its gates and beyond. Don’t forget to make your way over to Coney Island to say hello to the new arrivals.
📍 New York Aquarium: 602 Surf Ave., Brooklyn
⏰ Daily 10am-4pm through November 2nd; daily 10am-3:30pm from November 3, 2024 to March 2025
💵 Adult peak $32.95 and non-peak $29.95; children peak $27.95 and non-peak $25.95