After an absence spanning more than 20 years, otters have made a comeback at Delhi’s National Zoological Park, this time with the birth of a pup that zoo authorities describe as a milestone for their conservation programme, as per a report published by on February 27, 2026.
The newborn, delivered in January, is the first otter to be born at the capital’s zoo since 2004, when the last individual housed there died. Since then, the species had not been present at the facility.
The parents, a pair of smooth-coated otters, arrived in Delhi last year from Kamla Nehru Zoological Park in Surat under a coordinated animal exchange initiative. After their transfer, the animals were placed in quarantine in line with standard procedures and closely monitored by vets to enable the animals to acclimatize to their new environment. During this period, they were kept away from public viewing areas.
According to the zoo authorities, shortly after their arrival, the female was found to be pregnant.
The birth has renewed optimism among zoo officials about rebuilding a stable otter population in the capital. They explained that once the animals get accustomed to the environment, breeding will take place, thus ensuring the long-term survival of the species.
The reintroduction of otters to the Delhi zoo has also marginally raised the institution’s species count, which now exceeds 96. Authorities view the development as evidence that structured animal exchange programmes, combined with careful habitat management and sustained veterinary supervision, can yield positive conservation outcomes.
India is home to three of the world’s 13 recognised otter species: the Eurasian otter, smooth-coated otter, and small-clawed otter. The smooth-coated otter, the species now present in Delhi, has a broad distribution across much of the country south of the Himalayas. In contrast, the Eurasian and small-clawed otters are largely confined to the Himalayan region, areas north of the Ganges, and parts of southern India.
For zoo officials, the January birth represents more than just a new arrival, it marks the return of a species long missing from the capital’s zoological collection and signals a step forward in efforts to strengthen captive breeding initiatives.
Zoo authorities indicated that both adult otters are estimated to be between three and four years old. However, the male was recently admitted for medical care after showing signs of health concerns. Officials explained that during the nursing period, female otters are known to be highly protective and may restrict access to the pups, sometimes preventing the male from feeding normally.
Because of this behavioural pattern, the male reportedly reduced his food intake and required veterinary attention. Although the status of his health remains unconfirmed, it has been explained that his condition is being monitored.
There are plans to introduce the male otter to the public first, possibly in the coming weeks, depending on the weather. According to the authorities, otters react to climate change and perform well when the weather is not too extreme. When the weather is too hot or too cold, their performance is adversely affected. Therefore, the introduction of the female and her pup will take place later.
