Hampshire, Nature & Wildlife, New Forest | Posted on March 13th, 2024 | return to news
Giant otter gives birth to quadruplets at New Forest Wildlife Park
The birth of four endangered giant otter cubs was recently celebrated by the New Forest Wildlife Park in Hampshire. Sadly, two have since died.
The New Forest Wildlife Park celebrated the rare and momentous occasion of the birth of four giant otter cubs on 25 of December 2023.
The surprise litter marked the second successful birth for the otter couple Simuni and Ibera, who last year welcomed Karanambu to their family. Simuni is the oldest giant otter to have sired young in Europe at 13.5 years old.
The arrival of the quadruplets on Christmas Day has been celebrated as a significant achievement in the conservation of the endangered species.
The cubs, Guapo (the only male), Laguna, Acari, and Runa were named to celebrate the giant otters’ cultural and ecological significance.
Jason Palmer, curator of Collections at the wildlife park and its sister site, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, highlights the significance of these births, “With only 124 giant otters reported in zoos globally, 76 in Europe, and just 21 in the UK, New Forest Wildlife Park is home to seven, accounting for nearly half of the UK’s giant otter population. This achievement underscores the extensive expertise and dedication of the Heap family and the exceptional care and experience of our keeper team.
“However, it is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the cycle of life and nature’s inherent challenges, as we report the passing of two cubs, Laguna and Runa.
“Their loss is a reminder of the delicate balance in the conservation of these magnificent creatures and the high cub mortality rate among giant otters. It underscores the critical importance of our conservation efforts and the continuous need for research and understanding to safeguard the future of this extraordinary species. Our commitment to the protection and study of giant otters remains unwavering, as we honour the lives of Laguna and Runa and the ongoing journey of their siblings.”
The New Forest Wildlife Park is a proud affiliate of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) for the conservation of giant otters. It actively supports global conservation strategies and collaborates with scientists and conservationists through the IUCN Otter Specialist Group to protect otters in their natural habitats.
The New Forest Wildlife Park invites the public and wildlife enthusiasts to join in supporting their ongoing conservation initiatives. These efforts not only contribute to the survival of the giant otter but also embody a collective endeavour to preserve the biodiversity of our planet for future generations to marvel at and enjoy.
Native to the Amazon’s lush forests and meandering rivers, giant otters stand as the largest among the 13 otter species, reaching lengths of up to an impressive six feet. Known for their playful nature and expert fishing skills, these magnificent creatures primarily feast on fish, including the fearsome piranha. Unfortunately, habitat loss and hunting for their luxurious fur have led to a significant decline in their population, classifying them as an endangered species.
For more information about the wildlife park visit www.newforestwildlifepark.co.uk
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