BOSTON (AP) – The question of whether a two-year-old beaver named Nibi can stay with the rescuers she has known since she was a baby or must be released into the wild was resolved on Thursday when the Massachusetts governor stepped in to protect Nibi.
The state issued a permit to Newhouse Wildlife Rescue for Nibi to remain at the rehabilitation facility and serve as an educational animal.
“Nibi has captured the hearts of many of our residents, mine included,” Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey said.
“We’re excited to share that we have issued a permit for Nibi to remain in Newhouse’s care, continuing to educate the public about this important species.”
Nibi’s fate had made it all the way to the state courts before Healey stepped in.
A judge earlier had said that Nibi would be allowed to stay in her home at the rescue centre in Chelmsford, located northwest of Boston.
Nibi’s rescuers at Newhouse Wildlife Rescue said on their Facebook page that they were “beyond grateful” for Healey’s decision.
Nibi has been a hit on the rescue group’s social media since she was a baby, and posts about her impending release garnered thousands of comments.
An online petition to save Nibi from being released into the wild has received over 25,000 signatures, lawmakers have weighed in, and earlier this week Healey pledged to make sure Nibi is protected.
