Portsmouth’s Blue Reef Aquarium throws a month-long bash for otter trio’s 10th birthday!
Otter Month kicks off with a splash
The beloved Asian short-clawed otters Ralph, Patty, and Selma, born at Portsmouth’s Blue Reef Aquarium back in 2006, are celebrating a whopping 10 years. To mark this rare milestone, the Southsea aquarium is going otterly bonkers with a whole month of special events and activities for fans.
“We’re giving them a proper birthday party on the day, but May will be ‘Otter Month’ to celebrate Ralph, Patty, Selma, and otters everywhere,” said aquarium spokeswoman Hannah Butt. The fun starts early on Saturday, April 30th, with a free family-friendly event at Southsea Library from 11.30am to 1.30pm – no booking needed.
Events, expert talks, and even a tame otter!
- May 7: Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust showcase local wildlife, including wild otters.
- May 14 & 15: UK Wild Otter Trust offers expert advice on UK otter conservation.
- Also on hand, local wildlife enthusiast Daphne Neville brings her tame otter for visitors to meet up close.
- May 21: Otter expert and author Daniel Allen gives talks and signs copies of his book ‘Otter’.
The New Forest Wildlife group joins in with crafts and badge-making to keep kids entertained, too.
Birthday treats and crafty fun
On May 23rd, Ralph, Patty, and Selma will enjoy a special birthday party with treats and presents from their keepers. Throughout May, the aquarium will run hands-on arts and crafts sessions themed around otters, giving visitors plenty of ways to join the celebrations.
Don’t miss out on a splashing good time celebrating the Blue Reef’s otters and all things otter-related this May!
