Inspired by Birmingham’s culinary scene, the bespoke ‘otter menu’ was a feast for the whiskers with precision-plated clams, ice-cold prawns, and expertly cracked crab, of course.
But this isn’t just about fishy frills. Ozzy and Ola are part of a pioneering marine rescue project, following their dramatic journey from Alaska to the UK and a two-year effort to build a state-of-the-art rescue facility at National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham. This World Otter Day, we're celebrating their survival and shining a light on why sea otters matter.
Senior Mammal & Bird Keeper at National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham, Faye Lane, says: “Sea otters like Ozzy and Ola are more than just cute, they’re crucial to marine ecosystems. They help keep kelp forests healthy by preying on sea urchins, and they’re an indicator species for ocean health. We're proud to give them a safe, enriching home where the public can connect with and learn from them every day.”
What else makes otters so fabulous? Did you know*:
· There are 13 known species of otters ranging from 80cm to 190cm!
· The mother and her pup hold each other’s hands so that they don’t drift away from each other while they sleep
· River Otter poo has such a unique smell that it’s even got its own name – spraint… some people think it’s the least offensive smelling excrement of the animal kingdom while others think it’s the worst
· Most species of otters spend their time on the banks of rivers and other bodies of water when they’re not hunting
· Sea otters can hold their breath underwater for more than 5 minutes
· Many species of otters were once at risk of becoming extinct due to their sought-after fur. While the practice of hunting otters is no longer a common practice, they’re still at risk
With their dense fur (the thickest in the animal kingdom!) and clever habits like using rocks to open clams, Ozzy and Ola are stealing hearts while helping tell an important conservation story. Come see them in action at the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham!