Reid Park Zoo is excited to announce the addition of two Asian small-clawed otters. Berani (male, age 3) and Little Frei (female, age 7).
“The otters explored their new habitat for the first time today, investigating the water features and picking umbrella grass to add to their bedding,” said Adam Ramsey, Reid Park Zoo’s Director of Animal Care. “We’re excited for guests to come out and see them as they settle in.”
The two otters have been getting along very well since they were introduced last week behind-the-scenes. Little Frei is the more outgoing of the two otters and can be identified by her lengthy tail, sharper snout, and light brown neck. Berani is a more stout, stubby otter, with a lighter muzzle and white on his body and chin. “He’s been more shy than Little Frei up to this point, but was the first otter to emerge to explore the new space,” Ramsey said.
Reid Park Zoo is currently constructing its upcoming Pathway to Asia expansion. When it is complete, Berani and Little Frei will move into a brand new habitat in the expansion, complete with a beautiful stream, waterfall, and gorgeous rockwork.
In the wild, Asian small-clawed otters are considered vulnerable due to habitat destruction, depletion of food sources, and wildlife trafficking. You can show your love for Berani and Little Frei’s wild counterparts by shopping sustainably. Buying shade-grown coffee, using the Palm Oil Scan app to shop for products made from sustainably sourced palm oil, and purchasing sustainable seafood are all great ways to protect otter habitats from human encroachment. The otters at Reid Park Zoo eat sustainable seafood as part of the Seafood Watch® program.
