- Arrival of Maybelle, a North American river otter from the Calgary Zoo, and her transition to the Americas Pavilion.
- The quarantine period and acclimation process for new zoo animals.
- Behavioral observations of Maybelle in her new environment.
- Introduction protocols between Maybelle and RJ, her enclosure mate.
- Visitor experiences and educational opportunities at the Americas Pavilion.
Back in May, we announced the arrival of Maybelle, a 2.5-year-old North American river otter, who came to us from Calgary Zoo. This transition marks an important milestone for both Maybelle and our visitors. Now that her quarantine period is complete, she has moved to our Americas Pavilion. This article elaborates on her journey, the acclimation process, and her behavior as she begins to interact with her new surroundings and otter companion, RJ.
Quarantine and Acclimation Process
When new animals arrive at a zoo, they undergo a quarantine period. This process is crucial for several reasons. Quarantine helps prevent the spread of diseases that the new animal might carry, ensuring the health and safety of the existing zoo inhabitants and the new arrival. Quarantine periods, typically lasting between 30 to 90 days, involve comprehensive health screenings, vaccinations, and close behavioral monitoring.
Maybelle’s quarantine was no different. During her time in isolation, she was monitored by our veterinary team for any signs of illness. Daily enrichment activities were provided to keep her mentally stimulated and to observe her behavior. Our team noted her alert and inquisitive nature, traits that bode well for her transition to the more dynamic environment of the Americas Pavilion.
Behavioral Observations
Maybelle’s transition to her new habitat has been closely watched by her Wildlife Care team. As an active and inquisitive otter, Maybelle has shown a strong interest in exploring her surroundings. North American river otters are known for their playful behavior and intelligence. They are semi-aquatic mammals, spending significant time both in the water and on land.
Our initial observations indicate that Maybelle spends a lot of time swimming and diving. These activities are not just for fun; they are essential for her physical health and mental well-being. River otters have a high metabolism and require their aquatic environment to dive, hunt, and keep their muscles toned. The habitat simulates natural conditions, providing streams, pools, and spaces to roam—components that nurture an otter’s natural instincts and behaviors.
Introduction to RJ
Introducing new animals to an established group or individual is a delicate process that involves careful planning. Maybelle’s introduction to RJ, another North American river otter and her new companion, follows specific protocols. Initially, the otters are kept separate but within visual or olfactory range of each other. This step allows them to become accustomed to each other’s presence.
Further steps involve supervised interactions to observe their social dynamics. Otters are generally social animals, but individual temperaments can vary. Maybelle and RJ’s interactions will be monitored by our Wildlife Care team to ensure no signs of aggression or stress. Gradually, these interactions will increase in duration and frequency, fostering a bond between the otters.
Visitor Experience and Education
With Maybelle now settled in the Americas Pavilion, visitors are provided with a unique opportunity to observe her and RJ. Educational signage and interactive displays around the pavilion help guests learn about the ecological significance of North American river otters. These exhibits highlight their role in aquatic ecosystems, including their impact on maintaining healthy fish populations and their responses to environmental changes.
Guests can watch Maybelle and RJ in both indoor and outdoor settings. The indoor habitat allows visitors to view otters up close, while the outdoor habitat provides a more naturalistic setting, complete with streams and pools. These dual environments offer an engaging and educational experience, combining visual enjoyment with informative content.
Conservation Insights
The presence of animals like Maybelle in zoos serves deeper purposes beyond public entertainment. North American river otters are a conservation success story. Historically, their populations faced significant decline due to habitat destruction and pollution. Conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and pollution control, have helped their populations recover in many regions. Zoos play a part in these efforts by educating the public about environmental conservation and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Maybelle’s story exemplifies the collaborative efforts between various institutions such as the Calgary Zoo and our facility, ensuring genetic diversity and the well-being of species under human care. These institutions often participate in species survival plans, which are coordinated efforts to manage the breeding of endangered or vulnerable species to maintain healthy captive populations.
Enrichment and Mental Stimulation
To keep Maybelle and RJ mentally stimulated, various enrichment activities are designed by our Wildlife Care team. Enrichment activities for otters may include introducing new objects like floating toys, scent trails, puzzle feeders, and varying their feeding schedules. These activities aim to simulate natural foraging behaviors and encourage problem-solving skills.
Enrichment is more than just entertainment; it is a critical aspect of animal welfare. For highly intelligent species like river otters, providing mental challenges prevents boredom and promotes a wide range of natural behaviors. These activities are continually adapted based on the otters’ responses and interests, ensuring they remain engaged and healthy.
Conclusion
Maybelle’s arrival marks a significant event for our zoo and serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts in wildlife conservation and education. As she and RJ continue to enrich the lives of visitors and educators alike, they highlight the importance of understanding and protecting our natural world. The journey of integrating new animals, such as Maybelle, underscores the meticulous planning and dedication of zoo management and wildlife care professionals. Visitors to the Americas Pavilion now have the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the playful antics and social behaviors of these fascinating creatures, fostering a deeper connection with and appreciation for wildlife conservation efforts.
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Source Description
Incoming 🦦
Back on in May, we announced the arrival of Maybelle, a 2.5 year-old female North American river otter who arrived from the Calgary Zoo 🦦
With her quarantine period now complete, Maybelle has transitioned over to the Americas Pavilion, where she’s settling in nicely. So far, she has shown herself to be a very active and inquisitive otter.
Her Wildlife Care team in the Americas Pavilion are currently working on introductions between her and RJ.
Guests travelling through the Americas during their next Zoo visit will be able to catch glimpses of both otters in their indoor and outdoor habitats 🌊 Here’s to plenty of swimmies!
