The Cincinnati Zoo is home to a captivating group of North American River Otters, known for their playful antics and remarkable aquatic abilities. As a zoo touring enthusiast, you’ll have the opportunity to witness these charismatic creatures up close and learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Otter Exhibit and Encounter
Sea Otter Coast
The Cincinnati Zoo is currently transforming the former “Bear Hill” area into three new habitats, one of which is the highly anticipated “Sea Otter Coast.” This exhibit, expected to open in 2024, will feature a massive underwater viewing area where visitors can observe sea otters in their natural element.
River Otter Habitat
In the meantime, the zoo currently houses two river otters, Sugar and Wesley, who can be seen in their dedicated habitat. This exhibit is designed to mimic the otters’ natural environment, allowing visitors to observe their playful behavior and aquatic prowess.
Otter Facts
Physical Characteristics
River otters are well-suited for their aquatic lifestyle, with a streamlined body, webbed feet, muscular tail, and flexible body. Their waterproof fur helps them stay warm and dry while swimming and hunting in the water.
Behavior
Otters are renowned for their playful antics, which include mud sliding, water sports, and manipulating objects. These activities not only provide entertainment for visitors but also help the otters improve their coordination and hunting skills.
Habitat and Diet
River otters thrive in areas with abundant prey and clean water, feeding on a variety of aquatic creatures such as fish, crayfish, and other small animals.
Conservation Efforts
Fecal Sample Research
The Cincinnati Zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts, collaborating with Working Dogs for Conservation to use river otter fecal samples to train dogs that can detect environmental contaminants in riverine ecosystems. This research helps to monitor the health of the river systems and identify potential threats to the otter population.
Visiting the Zoo
Hours and Admission
The Cincinnati Zoo is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission prices vary depending on age and residency, but general admission ranges from $19.95 to $29.95 for adults.
Conclusion
The Cincinnati Zoo’s river otters are a captivating and playful addition to the zoo’s diverse animal collection. Whether you’re interested in their physical characteristics, behavior, or the zoo’s conservation efforts, a visit to the river otter habitat is sure to be a highlight of your zoo tour. Plan your visit to the Cincinnati Zoo and witness the remarkable aquatic abilities of these charismatic creatures.
References:
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/animals-archive/north-american-river-otter/
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/black-bears-and-sea-otters-coming-to-cincinnati-zoo/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6M9L9nzy-Y
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/what-are-you/you-are-an-otter/
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/otter-mink-dogs-the-cincinnati-zoo/