Volunteer   |   Donate

Admission Membership
Admission Membership

On Zoo Boo dates (Oct. 3-4, 9-11, 16-18 and 23-25), regular Zoo hours are 10 a.m.–2 p.m. The Zoo will reopen from 3-8:30 p.m. for the event. A separate Zoo Boo ticket is required.

North American River Otter

(Lontra canadensis)

The Detroit Zoo is home to a family of North American river otters. Kalee came to the Zoo in 2018 after she was rescued by hikers who found her injured in Alaska. Gus joined in May 2021. In 2026, the couple welcomed three pups — Meg, Sophie and Allie.

Off Habitat

Locate on Map

Quick Facts

Habitat: Edward Mardigian Sr. River Otter Habitat

Class: Mammals

Conservation Status: Least concern

Size: 2 to 3 feet long, with a tail that can be 1 to 1.5 feet long

Weight: 10 to 30 pounds

Median life expectancy: 12 years

Diet: Fish, turtles, crabs, mollusks, birds, oysters, shellfish, crayfish, frogs, rodents and insects

Upcoming Events

River Otters Enrichment

River otters enrichment happens every Monday and Friday 1:30 PM