Friday, May 1, 2026
Virginia Beach, VA – The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s much-loved North American river otter named Homer was humanely euthanized on Wednesday afternoon, April 29. Homer was a geriatric otter at 16 years old and had been with the Virginia Aquarium for 15 years.
Homer's health started to decline last week with a lack of appetite and limited mobility. The animal care and veterinarian teams monitored Homer closely and provided intensive care; however, Homer showed no signs of improvement in mobility or overall condition.
A necropsy was conducted on April 30th. Some test results are pending, but initial findings include a structural abnormality in the vertebral column that correlates with the progressive decrease in hind-end mobility observed over the past week.
“Homer was loved by staff and guests alike and will be dearly missed,” said Virginia Aquarium CEO Cynthia Whitbred-Spanoulis. “I am deeply appreciative of our incredible team, who ensured Homer’s golden years were filled with comfort, enrichment, and excellent care.”
Homer was born at Beardsley Zoo in Connecticut and made the Virginia Aquarium home in March 2011. Homer was inquisitive, playful, and spent his time exploring his habitat. When resting, he would curl up in a quiet corner or lie in the sun.
North American river otters typically live eight to nine years in their natural habitat and well into their teens under professional care. North American river otters are native to Virginia, although their range is impacted by habitat loss and environmental pollution.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s mission is to connect people to the marine environment, inspiring a more sustainable future. The Aquarium aspires to be a driver in conservation, education, tourism, and sustainability, leading the charge to save wildlife and their ecosystems. Owned by the City of Virginia Beach, the Aquarium operates as a city department in partnership with the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation. The Aquarium is proud to be an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports the work of the Virginia Aquarium. The Foundation procures and maintains the Aquarium's exhibits, including the animals and habitats. It is also responsible for annual and capital fundraising, administration and funding for the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program, conservation and scientific research efforts, and the Aquarium's mission-related education programs. You can be a part of our mission by making a tax-deductible donation to support our programming.
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