MEET THE OTTERS...
Visit the Banks of the Yellowstone Exhibit and See Otters Curiously Exploring Their Habitat and Showing Off Their Incredible Swimming Skills
This multi-species exhibit invites you to discover the connections between Yellowstone’s native wildlife and the important roles each species plays within the ecosystem. From the smallest amphibians to some of Yellowstone’s most iconic predators, these animals are connected through the food chain and the habitats they share. A naturalistic setting, paired with educational graphics, gives you an opportunity to explore these relationships while watching the animals engage in their habitats.
This exhibit is currently home to five otters—three males and two females—that came to us from other reputable wildlife facilities. They share the space with several other native species, including two western tiger salamanders, two Columbia spotted frogs, a western terrestrial garter snake, and a rubber boa.
Throughout the day, the otters are rotated between the main habitat and their dens or a behind-the-scenes outdoor play area. Between each rotation, animal keepers provide enrichment by adding food, objects, and other items of interest for the otters to investigate. These activities encourage the otters to express their natural curiosity, playfulness, and problem-solving behaviors.
As you explore the exhibit, we hope you’ll gain a greater appreciation for the many species connected to bears and wolves within the Yellowstone ecosystem—and a deeper understanding of how each animal plays an important role in this interconnected community of wildlife.
ASPEN
Aspen came to the GWDC when she was 10 months old in December of 2018 from the Pittsburgh Zoo with her sister, Willow. She’s lively and intelligent and a great problem solver.
WILLOW
Willow likes to explore the habitat searching for food. On a sunny day she can be found napping in a sunny spot. She’s very playful splitting most of her time in and out of the water while engaging with surroundings.
CLIFF
Cliff arrived as a juvenile in December of 2018 with his brother Wade. He’s charming and uses his highly developed social skills to enthusiastically wrestle with his brother in the water or on land.
WADE
Wade was born in 2018, came from Zoo Montana in Billings. He spends the majority of his time thoroughly investigating the pools and crevices for food. He can be seen racing and diving across the habitat.
MOE
Moe arrived from the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, WA on September 8, 2020 at two years old. He is a strong swimmer, confident forager, and he eagerly investigates new and exciting enrichment to the delight of visitors.
