Asta, the oldest Asian small-clawed otter at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF), died on January 7. She was under the care of the aquarium’s otter team and veterinarians from the North Carolina Aquariums. Staff had been monitoring her health, and when age-related conditions worsened to a point where her comfort could not be maintained, she was humanely euthanized.
At 17 and a half years old, Asta lived beyond the typical life expectancy for her species in professional care, which is usually between 12 and 15 years. After recent diagnostic tests, veterinarians placed her in palliative care.
Asta arrived at NCAFF in 2020. She became known for twirling in the pool and for her close bond with her son Ray. The two were often seen together in the Otters on the Edge habitat. Her favorite activities included juggling pebbles and shells as well as resting on or inside logs with Ray.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Asta, an otter beloved by us and the community,” said Joanna Zazzali, NCAFF director. “We are grateful for the outpouring of support and love for her which has been comforting to us at the Aquarium.”
The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher participates in caring for Asian small-clawed otters through programs like the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan (SSP). This species is native to parts of Asia including Indonesia, southern China, southern India, Southeast Asia, and the Philippines. It is listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to threats such as habitat loss from development and deforestation, illegal pet trade, pollution, climate change, and poaching.
The aquarium plans to share memories of Asta on its social media platforms and encourages visitors to post their own tributes online.
Located south of Kure Beach near Wilmington on U.S. 421—and close to the Fort Fisher ferry terminal—the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is part of a network managed by the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR). Its mission focuses on inspiring appreciation for aquatic environments through exhibits that include sharks, alligators, eagles, sea turtles, and families of Asian small-clawed otters.
The DNCR operates more than 100 sites across North Carolina with goals related to education about natural resources and culture.
