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Endangered baby giant otter triplets have been born at Chester Zoo

SO CUTEEEEE.

Emily Sergeant - 10th April 2026

This calls for celebration, as Chester Zoo has welcomed baby giant otter triplets in what is huge news for the endangered species.

It’s been a really exciting start to 2026 at Chester Zoo, as it was only a couple of days ago we got to see Dotty the baby Kirk’s dik-dik – which is one of the smallest antelopes in the world – take her first steps, and now it’s time to say hello to three new arrivals in the form of giant otter pups.

The trio are the first of their kind to be born at the zoo in several years, and arrive as part of an international conservation effort to boost numbers.

Arriving to first-time parents Bonita and Manu, up until now, the three giant otter pups have remained tucked away in their cosy holt with mum feeding them regularly until they more than tripled in size – but now, they’ve officially entered into the big wide world.

Following their first health check-up with the zoo’s veterinary team, conservationists have revealed the sex of the pups to be two males and a female

Their names are yet to be chosen, so keep your eyes peeled.

Chester Zoo has described this triple birth as a ‘rare boost’ for one of the world’s most endangered species, as there are thought to be fewer than 5,000 giant otters surviving in the wild right now.

Giant otters are the world’s largest species of otter, with a powerful build, sharp teeth, and a highly social nature. As one of the apex predators in the waterways where they live, they play a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of freshwater ecosystems. 

But sadly, experts say the species faces ‘an uncertain future’, with their decline largely driven by deforestation, water pollution, and illegal hunting, leading them to be listed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), meaning they face a very-high risk of extinction without urgent conservation action. 

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“The arrival of these three giant otter pups is a hugely special moment and marks the first time the species has been born here in seven years,” explained Rachael Boatwright, who is the Assistant Team Manager of carnivores at Chester Zoo.

“The pups recently had their very first health check-up at eight weeks old, where they were weighed and had their heart, teeth and overall condition assessed by the zoo’s vets. We’re delighted to confirm that all three are healthy and thriving – and that we have two males and one female pup.

Read more:

• One of the world’s tiniest antelopes has been born at Chester Zoo and it’s no bigger than a tin of beans
• Chester Zoo becomes first UK zoo to gain important international status
• New spring date announced for Chester Zoo’s popular running event to help UK wildlife

“At eight weeks old, the pups will now start to venture outside alongside parents Bonita and Manu, who will start introducing them to the water and all of the essential skills they’ll need as they grow.”

Featured Image – Chester Zoo