January 07, 2014 - 11:16 AM
VANCOUVER - A rescued sea otter who was blinded by a shotgun blast will remain at the Vancouver Aquarium because he's unable to care for himself in the wild.
The otter dubbed Walter was moved to his permanent home after receiving 11 weeks of treatment and rehabilitation at the facility's marine mammal rescue centre.
He joins Katmai, Tanu and Elfin, three other rescued sea otters who are also getting ongoing care at the aquarium.
Walter's transfer there was approved by the Fisheries Department after he was designated non-releasable and unable to forage on his own or avoid predators in his natural habitat.
The sea otter was rescued on the shoreline in Tofino last October after members of the public reported he appeared lethargic and uncharacteristically approachable.
Vancouver Aquarium veterinarian Dr. Martin Haulena says Walter needed multiple surgeries to repair his fractured flipper and has been treated for dental injuries.
News from © The Canadian Press, 2014