COOPER'S STORY

North American River Otter

Species: North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis)

Sex: Male

Diet: Capelin, Lake Smelt, Feline Diet and Carrots

Stranding Date: 07/21/2001

Estimated Age Upon Arrival: 7-9 Months

On July 21, 2001, CMA rescued a young male otter pup that was found in a private citizen's garage in St. Petersburg, Florida. The young otter, later named "Cooper" after longtime CMA supporters Tom and Sarah Cooper, was severely dehydrated and emaciated. Due to the nature of his injuries, it is likely that he was hit by a motor vehicle. Although he has regained much of his abilities to walk, he still suffers from permanent damage to his vertebrae, which requires him to be on daily medications. Cooper has since regained his ability to move around and is still agile in the water, but drags his back legs behind him on land. As he will never walk properly, Cooper could not hunt or defend himself in the wild, making him a permanent resident at CMA. Marine mammal staff work with Cooper daily to ensure that he receives sufficient exercise and stimulation, despite his injury.