The Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago has introduced a new resident, Tucker, a 6-year-old North American river otter. Originally from Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot, North Dakota, Tucker's transfer was part of the North American River Otter Species Survival Plan. This plan is a collaborative effort involving various institutions under the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Curator Dan Boehm shared insights into Tucker's behavior since his arrival. “In the short time that Tucker has been here, he’s already impressed us with his intelligence. He’s quick to engage with puzzle feeders and has a playful personality,” said Boehm. He also noted that Tucker favors rib bones, which have been incorporated into his diet by the zoo’s Nutrition Center.
North American river otters are semiaquatic animals found near permanent water sources like rivers and streams. Visitors to the zoo can see Tucker swimming or moving around on land. These otters play a significant role in their ecosystems as keystone species; their population health indicates high water quality in their habitats.
The population of North American river otters in Illinois exemplifies successful wildlife recovery efforts. By the late 1980s, they were endangered due to habitat loss, poor water quality, and overhunting. However, conservation initiatives over three decades have led to a resurgence of about 15,000 individuals across all counties in Illinois. Notably, these otters have been spotted along the Chicago River and were observed by Lincoln Park Zoo’s Urban Wildlife Institute last year.
Lincoln Park Zoo remains committed to fostering environments where wildlife can thrive amidst urban development. Established in 1868 as a historic Chicago landmark, it operates as a privately-managed not-for-profit organization dedicated to conservation and education while remaining free for visitors throughout the year.