NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher celebrating ‘otterly’ amazing Sweet 16

KURE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is celebrating a major milestone for one of its most popular residents.

Asta the otter is turning 16 years old. She’s been at the aquarium since February 2020 and is known for juggling pebbles and looking after her son Ray.

Asian small-clawed otters typically live up to 12 years in professional care, although some can live longer than 20 years. Their lifespan in the wild is unknown.

The aquarium is making Asta a giant cake with new shells and rocks and some of her favorite treats.

Before Asta’s birthday celebration, the aquarium is hosting another event called ‘Raise a Cup for Otters’. They will be serving Bird Friendly coffee, which is grown sustainably and preserves habitats for birds, otters, and other wildlife.

During the coffee-tasting event, NCAFF environmental educators will be on hand with information about Asian small-clawed otters and why it’s important for the community to know about how they can protect them.

The coffee tasting is taking place on Tuesday 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Otters on the Edge. Sweet Asta’s Sweet 16 is taking place at the same location from 11:00 a.m. to 11:25 a.m.

Aquarium tickets are needed to attend both events. They can be purchased ahead of time online.

Otter fans who are not able to attend can tune in for Asta’s birthday celebration live on Facebook.