Sea Otter Dies Following Historic Surgery at Vancouver Aquarium

With great sadness staff at the Vancouver Aquarium has announced that Corky the sea otter has died following his historic surgery.

Despite efforts from staff at the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Centre, and an international team of veterinarians, Corky succumbed to his injuries early Wednesday morning. Corky underwent a first-of-its kind surgery on Monday night as vets attempted to save his life following a suspected boat strike injury.

“Corky’s case was such an inspiring rescue effort,” said Emily Johnson, manager of the Aquarium’s Marine Mammal Rescue Centre. “The surgery was nothing short of amazing, and I thought he just might pull through. He seemed to have that much will. He was a special little guy.”

Corky was rescued near Tofino on August 13^th by a team from the Rescue Centre. Head veterinarian Dr. Martin Haulena said the animal had a fractured rib that led to subcutaneous emphysema, or air trapped under his skin. Unable to dive or forage for food, Corky faced certain death in the wild, and was brought to the rescue centre for treatment. Once the emphysema subsided, follow-up tests showed one of his kidneys had also likely ruptured.

Monday night he underwent surgery to remove his kidney and blood clots from his bladder. The sea otter also had the first known blood transfusion.

“We knew his condition was critical, and that the odds were against him, but we gave it everything we had, including trying new surgery techniques to save him,” said Dr. Martin Haulena, head veterinarian at the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre. “We learned so much from him. His treatment contributes to a greater body of vet knowledge which will help us with future rescue efforts.”

Staff and volunteers are greatly saddened by the loss of Corky and are asking the public to consider making a contribution to help other sea otters rescued by the non-profit organization.