The N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island had to say goodbye Wednesday to Webster, the Virginia opossum in their care for nearly four years.
“After biopsy results confirmed that Webster had a form of inoperable cancer in his mouth, our animal care team and veterinary staff made the decision to humanely euthanize him on January 20,” the aquarium said in a Facebook post.
It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of Webster, the Virginia opossum that was in our care for nearly four…
Posted by NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island on Wednesday, January 20, 2021
Webster came to the aquarium after he was orphaned and it was discovered that his rear hip joints were not properly developed. In the wild, this condition would prevent him from climbing trees to search for food, escape predators, and to rest, making a release into his natural habitat unfeasible.
At the aquarium, he received the care he needed, including physical therapy and lots of physical and mental enrichment.
“He was a well-loved member of our animal family and, as an ambassador for his species, he helped to educate guests and alter the perceptions of many regarding opossums,” the aquarium said. “He will be missed by many, from caretakers to guests.”
