JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens welcomed four baby otters.
The two male and two female Asian small-clawed otter pups were born on Dec. 28, according to a news release from the zoo.
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It's the second birth for parents Carlisle and Harley.
Animal care staff have kept the newborns behind the scenes as a precaution, the release said. Typically, Asian small-clawed otters remain in their den for several weeks.
The quartet now weigh more than a pound each at twelve weeks.
The Asian small-clawed otters are found in southeast Asia, and are considered vulnerable because of habitat destruction.
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“We’re fortunate to work in an environment that places great emphasis not only on education about wildlife, but also on the conservation of vital ecosystems,” said the zoo's Executive Director Tony Vecchio. “Helping our guests understand the threats these animals face and the potential benefits the species bring to aquatic habitats will help inspire action.”
The zoo remains closed due to the COVID-19 mandates, but it’s possible to check up on the pups on a webcam on the zoo’s website.
Four Asian small-clawed otters join Jacksonville Zoo family!Pause your scroll and take some time to enjoy the cuteness!! Four Asian small-clawed otters were born on December 28, 2019. Our Animal Care staff kept the family behind the scenes as a precaution during their development. The quartet now weigh more than a pound each at twelve weeks. This is the second birth for the species at the Zoo, and for parents Carlisle and Harley! Learn more: https://www.jacksonvillezoo.org/asian-small-clawed-otter-pups Help us welcome these four pups into the Jacksonville Zoo family with a loving GIF in the comments below!
Posted by Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens on Tuesday, April 21, 2020