Three Asian small-clawed otter pups – all females, born May 21, are growing and bonding with their parents Leia and Quincy behind the scenes at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher. This overwhelming amount of adorable represents success in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan®(SSP) Program.
Always on the move and otterly fun to watch, the Asian small-clawed otters capture the hearts of visitors. Leia, age 3, and Quincy, age 8, are both first-time parents and from their behavior so far, they are very attentive to their offspring. Guests will have the opportunity to experience the pups in their habitat Otters on the Edge once they are eating solid foods and become proficient swimmers.
Asian small-clawed otters are the smallest species of otter and listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Population numbers are declining because of threats including development, deforestation, the illegal pet trade, pollution, climate change and poaching.
Read more about the otters at the NCAFF by visiting Welcome Otter Pups. Our community can track their growth and playfulness on the NCAFF social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
