Today is World Otter Day - if you are on grounds we will be having some special otter enrichment in about an hour (~2 p.m.)! River otters hold a special place in our heart here at the Zoo as they are a species native to our local ecosystem and we have been directly involved in conservation efforts for many years. 🦦 North American river otters were trapped for their highly-prized furs, resulting in a steep decrease in population since the 1800s. However, the otter is being restored to places whe

New Orleans, Louisiana – October 2, 2025. Dramatic footage has surfaced showing a river otter coming to the aid of a stranded puppy during a catastrophic flood in a coastal neighborhood. The cream-colored pup was trapped on a partially submerged roof when the otter swam close and offered its back as a raft. After a tense moment, the puppy jumped onto the otter, who skillfully navigated the dangerous current to a safe garage nearby. This incredible rescue has since gone viral, highlighting the su