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Chester Zoo Welcomes Rare Giant Otter Triplets

The healthy pups strengthen a global breeding programme for an endangered freshwater predator.

Overview

  • Chester Zoo released new footage confirming three giant otter pups, the first birth of the species there in seven years.
  • An eight-week veterinary check found all three healthy and identified two males and one female.
  • The youngsters have begun short trips outside as parents Bonita and Manu start teaching basic water skills.
  • Bonita and Manu were moved from European partner zoos and paired through the international programme to maintain genetic diversity.
  • Giant otters are listed as endangered by the IUCN, with fewer than about 5,000 in the wild due to deforestation, polluted rivers, and illegal hunting.