Chicago's Shedd Aquarium has made the formal introduction of its newest furry inhabitant - a sea otter named Jade. She's the latest rescue to join the bustling aquatic family, and her name isn't just a random pick; it pays homage to Jade Cove located south of Monterey, California, known for its diving pleasures. Until now, Jade was simply referred to as Otter 937, but with her new name, she seems all set to make quite the splash.
Jade's naming was a rather democratic process, as it turned out guests at the aquarium had the final say through an onsite public vote. As reported by FOX32 Chicago, avid aquarium-goers were presented with a slate of names, including Esa, Marina, and Rey. However, it was Jade that emerged as the clear favorite, etching the connection between the city's newest oceanic celebrity and the picturesque California landscape.
Since arriving at the Abbott Oceanarium, Jade has been busy getting to know her fellow rescued otters, such as Luna and Watson. According to CBS News Chicago, she is thriving in her temporary home and displaying constructive behaviors like diving and grooming, which are essential for her as well as for potentially instructing future surrogate pups in their otter journey.
Andrea Oake, manager of sea otters and sea lions at Shedd Aquarium, expressed optimism about Jade's transition into the new environment. She told FOX32 Chicago, "Our animal care team is happy with how well she’s acclimated, and we’re having a lot of fun getting to know her; she is very inquisitive but also calm and confident." These traits bode well for Jade's role as a future surrogate mom to other rescued otters.
With her public debut under her belt, Jade is now a full-time Chicagoan and can be viewed by Shedd Aquarium guests, inviting admirers to witness her oceanic antics firsthand.
