The North American river otter pup in this photograph is now an energetic 1 year old getting used to her new home in the Discover Utah habitat at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. The female otter was transferred to the Aquarium last April 29 from Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Washington as part of a collaboration among American Zoo & Aquarium (AZA) member organizations to care for and educate the public about the species. 

The otter may now be seen by guests as she explores her environment and gets acclimated to her new living space. “We are thrilled to welcome this playful otter pup to our Aquarium family,” said Layne Pitcher, vice president of Marketing and Operations. “Not only will our visitors enjoy watching her energetic behavior, but they’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the rivers and wetlands she represents.” 

The otter habitat at the Aquarium is already the home of Oscar who shared the space for years with his brothers, Otis and Oliver. According to the Aquarium’s Instagram, Oscar’s brothers passed away from age-related health issues last year. The husbandry team is introducing the new otter to Oscar gradually and with great care to ensure a positive experience for both animals. 

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium offers its guests unique opportunities to learn about aquatic ecosystems and the amazing animals that depend on them. For more information visit livingplanetaquarium.org. (Photo courtesy of Loveland Living Planet Aquarium) λ