💦Potomac, Coquille and Nash made a splashing debut on American Trail! See the North American river #otter pups—along with mom, Ashkii—swim and explore their habitat from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily, weather permitting. Over the past week, they have been acclimating to their new surroundings, alternating between the pool and their off-exhibit den. Come visit this otterly delightful trio! ❤️ | Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

8.2K views · 512 reactions | 簾 North American river otters are considered a keystone species, which means other species in the same habitat largely depend on the existence of river otters. They are a top predator and their presence also reflects the health of the ecosystem around them. Find river otters, and you will find healthy streams and rivers.  See them at American Trail! | Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute | Facebook

Have you visited the North American river otters this winter? Cozy up in the log cabin at the Edward Mardigian Sr. River Otter Habitat, which features floor-to-ceiling acrylic windows that allow you to get nose-to-nose with these charismatic creatures. #DetroitZoo #ZooinWinter #VitaminZ | Detroit Zoo