Washington Wetland Centre staff devastated at death of Musa the otter
The centre is asking people to share their memories of Musa
Washington Wetland Centre has announce the sad passing of one of its much loved otters.
Musa, an Asian short-clawed otter, was 17 years old and had entertained visitors to the popular attraction for over a decade.
Musa was the oldest otter at the centre, but sadly passed away on Friday, October 16 after a short illness.
A spokesperson said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we sadly announce the passing of Musa, our beloved Asian short-clawed otter patriarch.
“But with that honour came inevitable age-related health problems. At 17-years-old, Musa was the oldest of his species across the whole of WWT.
“We knew this day was on the horizon, but that makes its arrival no less difficult. Devastated doesn’t come close to how we’re all feeling right now and we know that many of you will be just as heartbroken.”
The centre is asking people to share their memories of Musa on its social media pages.
The spokesperson added: “We will be celebrating his amazing legacy by sharing our memories, anecdotes and numerous pictures and videos of him throughout the years.
“It would mean the world to us if you did the same using #memoriesofmusa. But for now, rest in eternal peace darling Musa. Wherever you are, may the pebbles be plentiful and the minced beef delicious. We love you and you will be forever missed.”
Musa’s passing follows on from the loss of his partner, Mimi, who sadly passed away in March 2025, with the pair becoming parents to Buster, who still resides at the centre.
The spokesperson added: “Musa was truly the best of otters. A wonderful partner to the late Mimi, a loving father to no less than nine cubs during his lifetime, and a doting dad to nine-year-old Buster, who he lived alongside till the very end.
“Please rest assured that Buster’s welfare is now our absolute top priority and he is receiving all the love and extra care that he needs.
“Buster and the team have been preparing for this loss for a little while now and after taking some time to process things – and only when he is absolutely ready – we will introduce him to a new companion to share his life with.”