Meadow, Our Resilient River Otter

March 12, 2025

At the end of last year, Riverview Park and Zoo welcomed Meadow, a new native river otter, to join our group of three male otters. A comprehensive introduction plan was successfully implemented between the otters, with a month-long observation period showing promising results. However, an unfortunate altercation occurred between the otters, resulting in Meadow sustaining a severe leg injury. Following consultation with our veterinarian and the orthopedic surgeon, the team deemed the best course of action was to amputate the limb.

“Although this is an unfortunate situation, there is always a risk when introducing animals together, even when every precaution was taken by the Animal Care team.” Cathy Mitchell, Manager and Curator, Riverview Park and Zoo.

Meadow has been healing and recovering very well, she is a resilient young otter. We are very excited to share that she has been cleared by the animal health team to be back on exhibit and have outdoor access. Meadow was moved on March 11th into her own exhibit with ample outdoor space, located in the west outdoor primate exhibit. She has so much energy and we are looking forward to seeing her enjoy her new environment.

Emergency veterinary care and medications are just some of the unexpected costs that come with caring for animals. We want to thank our animal adopters and donors for their support. We rely on community support for a portion of our animal care operating fund. Community contributions play a vital role in sustaining our animal care operations and help us provide necessary care for animals like Meadow when they are sick or injured.