Otter pups on exhibit at Miller Park Zoo

[May 23, 2014]  BLOOMINGTON – Miller Park Zoo’s three female otter pups born on February 26 are on exhibit now at the facility, along with their mom, “Tallulah.”

The birth of the otter pups is a first for Miller Park Zoo and a rarity in general. North American River Otters rarely reproduce in zoos and aquariums, averaging only three litters a year total across 110 institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. A typical litter is three pups but can be anywhere from one to five.

“This is a big step for the pups,” explained Jay Tetzloff, Miller Park Zoo Superintendent. “We’re enjoying watching them grow up, and I encourage people to stop by and see them.”

The opportunity to name the pups will be auctioned off at Zoo Do in September.

A new river otter exhibit is in Phase I of the Zoo’s Master Plan. The Miller Park Zoological Society is currently fundraising for implementation of the Plan.

For more information contact Jay Tetzloff at Miller Park Zoo, 309-434-2250.

[Text received; ERIN MANGIAN, PARKS & RECREATION, BLOOMINGTON]