Lincoln Park Zoo welcomes 2 geriatric otters defying all odds

CHICAGO — The Lincoln Park Zoo has two new North American river otters defying all odds.

Harriet is 17, and Oscar is 18. Zoo officials say they have already settled into their habitats at Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo.

The life expectancy for North American river otters in accredited zoos and aquariums is 12.3 years.

Well into their senior stage of life, Harriet and Oscar arrived from separate zoos to live out their final days in the most comfortable place possible. Lincoln Park says all the zoos collaborated extensively on a “retirement plan” to ensure the otters’ well-being.

“We’re proud to provide a lifelong home for Harriet and Oscar, a retirement plan of sorts,” said curator Dan Boehm. “The teamwork in caring for these aging otters is a true testament to the dedication and collaborative nature of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited institutions.”

Lincoln Park Zoo also modified its habitat with ramps and other items to make it more accessible for the otters.

For more information about Lincoln Park Zoo, visit lpzoo.org .

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