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Rescued otter from Alaska finds new home, potential 'significant otter' at Detroit Zoo

Posted at 10:23 AM, Dec 20, 2018
and last updated 2018-12-20 12:13:34-05

(WXYZ) — A 7-month-old female North American river otter named Kalee has found sanctuary at the Detroit Zoo after she was rescued in Alaska in June.

She had a laceration and puncture wound on her side when she was discovered by hikers in Alaska. She was cared for at the Alaska Zoo in Anchorage until a permanent home was found.

Kalee is a potential future mate for Sparky, a 4-year-old male river otter born at the Detroit Zoo.

“Female river otters typically do not reproduce until they reach 2 years of age, but in the meantime, Kalee will be a playful companion for Sparky,” said DZS Chief Life Sciences Officer Scott Carter. “She is acclimating well to her new home and otter family.”

Kalee also joins Sparky’s parents Lucius, 12, and Whisker, 15, as well as 17-year-old female, Storm, at the Edward Mardigian Sr. River Otter Habitat.