Newborn Giant Otters

How big would you estimate a three day old giant otter to be? I imagine they could be quite big.

Lovely to see these spectacular animals building up their numbers in zoos.

IanRRobinson said:

Lovely to see these spectacular animals building up their numbers in zoos.

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Yes, it really is, isn't it?

I wonder why it is only now that this species is spreading in zoos, given its charisma, size, and endangered status? Maybe more institutions feel like the husbandry knowledge has advanced far enough to justify keeping them?

Hopefully the LA Zoo's new exhibit will be a great home for the species.

Blackduiker

PAT said:

How big would you estimate a three day old giant otter to be? I imagine they could be quite big.

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On viewing them yesterday, I'd say about the size of a common rat.

Thank for that. I would love to be able to see baby giant otters one day. You're so lucky

This latest litter was totally unexpected for me.

Blackduiker said:

This latest litter was totally unexpected for me.

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This is also unexpected for me! Although I haven't seen the adults on exhibit for some time, so maybe this is the reason why.

It is really too bad that LA has to handrear these cubs again. Much better conditions at other zoos - especially in Europe - make this unnessecary. Parents now regularly rear their cubs successfully, also in the presenece of older siblings (they learn most valuable parenting skills !)
Generaly, giant otters are becoming more common in zoos, because more and more follow the International Studbooks husbandry guidelines !

There were five in the litter. Two males are with the mother off exhibit.

coffeecake said:

There were five in the litter. Two males are with the mother off exhibit.

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Well atleast some progress has been made and she is taking part in the rearing for some, this is a good indication for the future