3 otters reported stolen from Coats sanctuary

Animal Ed.Ventures director Cory Freeman found that the North American river otters named Sigmund, Nessy and Ned were missing and their enclosure’s gate was open.

Freeman said she checked that the gate was locked before closing the sanctuary on Monday.

She said she heard a high-pitched noise in the middle of the night.

Animal Ed.Ventures takes in animals that were once pets.

The sanctuary said it is offering a reward for information that leads to the otters’ return.

Anyone with information about the otters’ whereabouts can call the Harnett County Sheriff's Office at 910-893-9111 or email Animal Ed.Ventures at sanctuary@animal-edventures.org.