River Otter Surprise in Boca Raton
Earlier this month, homeowners in Boca Raton, Florida, were shocked to find a river otter swimming in their backyard pool. They called the South Florida Wildlife Center (SFWC) because they were worried about its health.
Quick Rescue
A SFWC rescuer arrived quickly. They secured the otter and took it to the clinic. At the clinic, veterinarians noticed the otter had muscle weakness. It was dragging its body across the floor.
“Thankfully, he was in good body condition. But he was quieter than expected for his species and age,” said Haillie Mesics, SFWC development associate.
Diagnosis
The clinic ran an ultrasound, X-ray, and physical exam. They found the otter had ataxia, or poor muscle coordination. This could be caused by head trauma, toxicity, or an infection.
The otter’s past was unknown. The exact cause could not be determined. Still, the staff treated him. After a week of medication and intensive care, the otter started to improve.
“As days passed, his appetite returned. He became more alert and active,” Mesics said.
Reacclimating to the Wild
Once the otter improved, SFWC moved him to an outdoor enclosure. He started in a shallow pool. As he grew stronger, he moved to deeper water.
After a few days, the otter was energetic and healthy. He looked like a different animal from the weak one who had arrived weeks earlier.
Returning Home
Finally, it was time to release the otter. The homeowners mentioned a river otter family lived in their backyard pond. SFWC returned him there.
“We always try to return wildlife to the area where they were found, especially if they have family nearby,” Mesics said.
On release day, the otter darted to the pond and glided into the water. The rescuers were thrilled to see him rejoin his fellow otters.
“Once released, the otters took a moment to find each other. They reunited in the backyard pond, which connects to other waterways,” Mesics added.