Betty White didn't become a beloved national treasure on accident.
The Golden Girls star had always been open about her love for animals, so much so that she didn't think twice about using her money to save them.
White - whose silver screen career spanned over eight decades - died at home on Friday, December 31, 2021, less than three weeks before her 100th birthday.
Following the late TV icon's death at the age of 99, stories of her generosity have been flooding social media.
One such story came from the Audubon Nature Institute, who revealed just how much White had helped their animals out in 2005.
The actress selflessly paid for a private plane to relocate otters and penguins from Audubon Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
"We lost a conservationist, animal advocate, and friend," the institute wrote on Twitter.
"When the penguins & sea otters were evacuated to [Monterey Bay Aquarium] for Hurricane Katrina, Betty White paid for the plane to relocate them. She did not ask for fanfare; she just wanted to help."
The aquarium didn't know about White's contribution until after the fact.
Spokesperson Annie Matherne confirmed that White paid for "a portion" of the rescue mission, but the organization does not know the exact amount because Audubon didn't handle the transaction directly.
Meanwhile, Monterey Bay Aquarium wrote: "Thank you Betty for your boundless passion for wildlife and your support of our mission of ocean conservation.
"We look forward to continuing your legacy of compassionate care for our living planet—we’re grateful to have been a part of your wonderful life. #ThankYouForBeingAFriend."
It comes as the town of Oak Park in Illinois announced that the late actress is being honored with Betty White Day on her birthday on January 17.
As part of the celebration, Oak Park businesses, including Mickey's Restaurant, will create and offer their own Betty White specials. Mickey's will sell a meal made up of some of White's favorite foods.
White was born in Oak Park in 1922, although her family later moved to California. According to TMZ, White returned to visit the Illinois town years after she left.