The search began last October for a new CMM river otter after announcing the passing of Keenan, a.k.a “Bubbles.” This search was made possible with support from the Halvosa Family, long time museum members and volunteers, and the Peters family, longtime supporters of the Estuarine Biology program. David Moyer, Estuarine Biology Curator, reached out to rescue/rehabbers, other zoos, aquariums, and private collectors, before locating an otter rescued from legal trapping in Louisiana. The tip came from David Hamilton, Curator of Seneca Park Zoo and North American river otter stud book keeper for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Mr. Hamilton directed Moyer to Richard English of western Ohio. Mr. English purchases live-caught otters from Louisiana trappers, where they are considered a nuisance to aquaculture operations, and are trapped and killed for their pelts. Mr. English “rescues” them and sells them to public attractions with approval and licensing by the United States Department of Agriculture. In late January, Mr. English notified Moyer that an appropriate otter had become available. The museum had to move quickly and it was fortunate that Moyer had all the necessary permits and licenses in place. Before debarking, every state was contacted to alert them of our intentions to pick up and transport a river otter through their jurisdiction. Rather than risk shipping, Moyer decided it would be safer to personally transport the otter. A whirlwind overnight drive to Ohio with an immediate return to the museum was set in motion. Our veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Matteson with Three Notch Veterinary Hospital, volunteered to participate in the transport, thereby ensuring that any unforeseen health issues could be managed on the spot. The new otter was observed upon their arrival at Mr. English’s establishment on January 31. He was inspected for abnormalities and health concerns and was deemed to…