Hailsham, United Kingdom - September 02, 2024

In a playful twist to beat the summer heat, Sumatra and Padawan, two short-clawed Asian otters at Knockhatch Adventure Park, were treated to an "otter ice party." This innovative enrichment activity not only provided the otters with a fun way to cool off but also mimicked their natural environment, enhancing their well-being and offering visitors a unique glimpse into their behaviors.

The otters, both five years old, were seen frolicking in a pool filled with ice, engaging in activities that resemble their natural foraging behaviors, such as cracking open ice cubes much like they would freshwater crustaceans in the wild. Alana Lay-Flurrie, the 25-year-old zoo supervisor, documented the otters' joyous interaction with their icy environment. "The ice is a thrilling new experience for them," Lay-Flurrie commented. "Despite their age, they still exhibit a very playful spirit, which is delightful to watch."

Asian short-clawed otters, the smallest of the otter species, are native to the wetlands and mangroves of Southeast Asia. These creatures are listed as vulnerable due to habitat destruction, pollution, and the illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts are crucial for their survival, involving habitat restoration, legal protections, and educational programs to highlight their ecological importance.