A pair of North American river otters at the New Zoo Adventure Park in Green Bay, Wisconsin, decided to take an unauthorized field trip during a snowstorm. The otters, named Louie and Ophelia, enlarged an opening in their enclosure and escaped. The wily duo didn't immediately make use of their new-found freedom to run for the hills but instead had some fun in the snow.
Tracks and overnight camera footage showed that both otters appeared to have enjoyed the snowfall, romping around the zoo, frequently sliding on their bellies and exploring nearby water bodies. Prints showed they traveled through Reforestation Camp property, circling back to the Zoo perimeter fence repeatedly, never straying particularly far from home. This behavior is very typical for otters, as they are territorial and prefer to stay close to what's comfortable and known to them.
The zoo hired a tracker and asked the public to share photos or videos of sightings to assist with the search. Numerous sightings have already been reported. The zoo had initially suggested that the otters might return to their enclosure on their own, but Louie and Ophelia seem to have other plans. They were both born in the wild, and the surrounding area is well-suited to the otters, so if they decide to end their zoo adventure, they will likely make out just fine.
Previously:• Kayaker saved baby otter, then released her — but 1-1/2 years later she hasn't forgotten (video)
• Watch adorable baby otters playing in the snow
• Otter hauls self onto boat to escape hungry orca
Previously:
• Otters and orangutans being animal friends
• RIP Toola, world's most influential otter
• Watch adorable baby otters playing in the snow
• This swimming baby otter makes all my problems go away
