Otter pups Gemma, Kai, Ren make public debut at NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher

To this point, the pups have been in a den behind the scenes with a shallow tub with their parents, Leia and Quincy, who have been introducing them to water.

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“We’re excited for these otter pups to explore their home in Otters on the Edge. These pups have had excellent guidance from their three older siblings and parents, and we are looking forward to seeing the family of eight emerge for visitors to watch them play and splash in the habitat pool,” said Shannon Anderson, otter keeper at NCAFF.

“The popularity of these pups has given us a unique opportunity to tell the story of how vulnerable this species is in their native habitat and through them, inspiring individual action to protect them," said Hap Fatzinger, NCAFF director. "We hope the family is ready to emerge and we look forward to visitors having an opportunity to see them frolicking in Otters on the Edge.”

According to NCAFF, Leia and Quincy have been given space to allow the pups to learn on their own. The aquarium said Leia and Quincy have been attentive parents to the pups and their yearlings, Stella, Mae and Selene, who were born May 2022.

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While the pups are scheduled to be introduced to the habitat Tuesday, NCAFF said there is no certainty visitors will be able to see them when they visit, adding that it's possible the pups may stay behind or Leia and Quincy may keep them behind the scenes, as the two have been "protective parents."