14 DAY TRIAL // Staff at Auckland Zoo in New Zealand are happy to announce that two Asian small-clawed otter pups that were born at this facility earlier this year are thriving and growing stronger every day.
The adorable creatures were born at Auckland Zoo about a month ago to mom Jeta and dad Juno. Vets have not yet been able to determine whether they are boys or girls, or maybe one of each, Zoo Borns informs.
However, they have had the chance to weigh them, and say that one tips the scale at 0.97 pounds (440 grams). The other is just a wee plumper, and weighs 1 pound (461 grams).
Due to the fact that Jeta has never been a mother before, keepers have chosen not to disturb the otter family too much and instead allow the mom to bond with its offspring.
Presently, the baby otters are putting on weight at a rate of about 0.2 pounds (100 grams) per week. Besides, they appear to be gaining confidence, which is why it probably will not be long now until they make their public debut.
According to wildlife researchers, Asian small-clawed otters currently inhabit India, Indonesia, Vietnam, South China, the Malay Peninsula, and the Philippines. The International Union for Conservation of Nature considers the species a vulnerable one.