Clearwater Marine Aquarium Opossum Dies During Procedure
Benjamin, a popular wildlife ambassador, passed away this week during an attempt to address breathing issues.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Wildlife
Benjamin, a Virginia opossum who served as an ambassador for the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, has died during a veterinary procedure. The opossum had recently struggled with difficulty breathing and a decreased appetite.
Why it matters
Benjamin became a familiar face in the local community as part of the Animal Connection program, which launched following the opening of the Florida Wild & Exotic exhibit in November 2024.
Benjamin arrived at the aquarium in 2024 at five months old, following initial rehabilitation at Nature World Wildlife Rescue for injuries sustained in a dog attack at one month old. The opossum died during an attempt to address respiratory issues.
The players
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
A Clearwater facility focused on marine life rescue and rehabilitation that maintains the Florida Wild & Exotic exhibit.
Nature World Wildlife Rescue
A Homosassa-based organization specializing in the care and rehabilitation of injured native wildlife.
The details
Benjamin was brought to the aquarium to serve as a wildlife ambassador after surviving a dog attack as a young kit. Veterinary staff at the aquarium attempted a medical procedure this week to alleviate breathing issues and a loss of appetite. During this intervention, the animal experienced a rapid health decline and could not be resuscitated.
Timeline
2024: Benjamin arrived at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
November 2024: The Florida Wild & Exotic exhibit opened.
October 21, 2026: Benjamin passed away.
The Home Front
Benjamin played a central role in the Florida Wild & Exotic exhibit, which was established to educate the public about regional wildlife. His loss marks a quiet transition for the aquarium's specialized ambassador program.
If you or your family enjoyed visiting Benjamin at the aquarium, you can support local conservation by checking the aquarium's website for updates on the Florida Wild & Exotic exhibit. Please keep local wildlife rescue centers in mind if you encounter injured animals in your own backyard.
The takeaway
Benjamin's role as an ambassador highlighted the importance of rehabilitation for native opossums injured in the wild. Residents can continue to support the aquarium's mission by learning how to safely coexist with local wildlife near their homes.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to protect native animals in our Wildlife section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WFLA.
