Beloved Clearwater Marine Aquarium opossum Benjamin dies during procedure

A Virginia opossum named Benjamin, who was brought to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium after a dog attack in 2024, has passed away. Clearwater Marine Aquarium animal lossOfficials with CMA said the opossum was showing signs of a decreased appetite and had difficulty breathing Tuesday, prompting veterinary care staff to perform an immediate procedure to address his condition. But, officials said he declined quickly during the procedure and passed away. It wasn't immediately clear what caused the decreased appetite or difficulty breathing. Florida exhibit ambassador impactCMA welcomed the Virginia opossum back in September 2024. They said he was about five months old and suffering from life-altering injuries after a dog attack he survived at just 1-month-old. Benjamin was first brought to CMA for rehabilitation from Nature Wildlife Rescue in Homosassa with lasting neurological and physical challenges. Those challenges included difficulty maintaining his balance, a persistent tilt to the ri