Two river otters, Louie and Ophelia, made headlines after escaping from their Wisconsin zoo enclosure during a winter storm last week. Security camera footage captured the playful duo frolicking in the snow while a search effort continued.
The zoo reported that the North American river otters escaped through a small hole they enlarged in a buried fence. Zookeepers quickly noticed their absence during morning rounds.
Fortunately, the adventurous otters haven’t strayed too far; tracks show they explored nearby bodies of water and frequently returned to the zoo’s perimeter. Footage highlights one otter leaving a building and sliding belly-first on the snow, showcasing their playful nature.
Zookeepers emphasized the distinctive “bounce, bounce, sliiiiide” of otters, a signature print in the snow that underscores their playful behavior. Louie and Ophelia are expected to remain nearby, as otters are territorial animals. Their native species is well-equipped to survive in the local environment, finding ample food and shelter in the area’s ponds and streams.
Search efforts are underway, utilizing a hired tracker, motion-activated cameras, and public appeals for any photos or videos of the otters. Reports and sightings have already begun to roll in, including a clip that appears to show an otter gliding over the snow in a wooded area.
Search teams hope to confirm multiple sightings in the same location, providing a clear area for focused searching. The zoo assures the public that Louie and Ophelia pose no danger and are unlikely to approach humans.
