Summer is surely around the corner, as our otter pups have decided it’s warm enough to take their first swims.
The Asian short-clawed otter pups, born in January to first-time mum Midge, have spent their first few months tucked inside their nesting box, where Midge has been busy nursing them while dad Siyam stood guard.
But with temperatures warming up, the pups have been venturing out, with our zookeepers capturing their antics on hidden otter holt cameras. The playful pups have been spotted dipping in and out of the shallows, paddling confidently, and even attempting some underwater dives — only to be swiftly fished out by dad Siyam when things get too adventurous.
London Zoo’s otter keeper Amy McKillop said: “Watching the young pups take to the water has been really exciting. We’ve been watching every day via the cameras in the otter holt to see when Siyam and Midge would be ready to let their young take their first swim.
“The pups have grown so much in the past few weeks, and their curiosity and energy are really starting to shine through. To see them developing so well, and now out in the water splashing around, is fantastic – and a sure sign that summer is on the way!”
The pups continue to grow stronger by the day — but are still small enough to be picked up by the scruff of their necks and be carried by their devoted parents.
Amy added: “Siyam and Midge have been doing fantastic jobs as parents, particularly Midge — these two pups are her first litter. They’ve been on-hand every step of the way, keeping a cautious eye on their offspring, making sure they’re staying safe and warm in the den for as long as possible – and bringing them back in when it’s time for bed.”
The youngsters — yet to be named and sexed — are part of the European breeding programme for this Vulnerable species, which faces habitat loss in the wild. Vets will confirm the sexes of the otter pups once they are older and more independent from their parents.
Visitors can catch a glimpse of the young pups this Easter, alongside more than 8,000 other incredible animals here at London’s conservation zoo.