Keepers had reason to cheer after a trio of giant otter pups were born at Chester Zoo recently.
The triplets are members of an endangered species and are the first giant otter pups to be born at the award-winning Cheshire attraction in seven years.
The successful births are a landmark achievement for an international conservation initiative that aims to boost the number of giant otters in zoos and protect the species from extinction.
The pups were born to Manu and Bonita, who are first-time parents. They are currently nestled in underground otter homes called “holts”, enjoying regular feedings from their mum. However, the zoo’s expert veterinary team have been able to perform an initial health check on them and have confirmed their sexes – one female and two males.
Assistant Team Manager for carnivores, Rachael Boatwright, commented that arrival of the triplets was a special moment for the zoo. She commented on the health check, describing how the pups were weighed and their teeth, heart and overall condition were examined by the vets, with a confirmation that all three were thriving and healthy.
Now eight weeks old, the triplets will soon start to explore their enclosure alongside their parents. Manu and Bonita will introduce the pups to the water and show them the critical skills they need to develop.
Open seven days a week, Chester Zoo is based four miles from the city, allowing visitors to Chester a chance to see the giant otter triplets as they emerge from their holt.