Family of Otters in Botanic Gardens Split Up After Kids Disturbed Them; Wildlife Group Issues Advisory

By
Zhi Hao
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It’s human nature to go after anything that’s even remotely cute.

Though of course, the cuter it is, the more enthusiastic the reaction. 

As such, it is little wonder why kids would be particularly fascinated over the Zouk family, a family of otters believed to be the world’s “most urban-adapted otters”.

But whether this piece of fascination is actually ideal, is another question altogether.

Family of Otters in Botanic Gardens Split Up After Kids Disturbed Them; Wildlife Group Issues Advisory

On 14 April 2021, Facebook group Ottercity posted a 1:52 video clip on the social media platform.

Though the footage appeared to be cheery at first, what with the Zouk family basking in the adoration of nearby bystanders and children-friendly lettering implemented at the bottom, things soon took a rather dire turn when the otters went off and the kids began chasing them.

At one point, the family even had to split up in a bid to get away from their “apprehenders”.

According to Ottercity, such a development was inherently dangerous, considering how the otters may end up running onto roads in their panic.

“Am sure children don’t want that to happen,” the group wrote.

Instead, they advised, bystanders should simply appreciate the scene, and not do anything that might startle the critters.

Dogs should also be leashed, and children supervised.

Bystanders are also advised not to shout at, chase or corner otters.

They should also abstain from touching the critters, as smooth-coated otters have sharp teeth.

“Best to stay 5m away,” the group cautioned. “More if they have puppies.”

In the end, the consensus is simple: can see, cannot touch.

Ottercity wrote: “Some parents take the opportunity to educate young ones about our amazing urban otters – after all, no place else in the world has wild otters mingling in such a unique manner within a human dominated landscape. It’s like we’ve earned their trust.

“We can treasure the experience and keep it magical – just give them space.”

You can view the full Facebook post down below:

And Netizens Concur

To date, the post has garnered over 299 shares, as well as 1.5K likes & reactions.

Netizens have also sympathised with the Facebook group’s cause, with many wondering about the lack of human supervision.

“Why wasn’t anyone around to stop the children running excitedly towards the otters,” one said. “One little boy even touched it. Looks like an accident in the making.”

“Also, the girl with the hot pink cap and the cyan backpack got really close to the otters,” another wrote. “Where the heck was the person minding her?”

And one pointed out that the otters may face dire consequences, if they had inadvertently bitten the children in a bid at self-defense.

“Ridiculous… if your kids cant behave they need to stay home. As soon as one would have bitten them, people would have gone after the otter. Probably killing it and why because it’s protecting itself from your kids who cant listen.. smh”

In the worst-case scenario, the otters may even be culled or separated from each other.

The Zouk Family

Not to be confused with your human friends who frequent Zouk, the Zouk family is actually pretty famous here in Singapore.

After all, they have been documented touring the landscapes here, and catching quick naps in iconic places.

From crossing Penang Road to taking a well-earned rest on the Float, these otters are probably even more well-versed with Singapore than your typical Singaporean.

Because unlike us, they don’t need Google Maps to get around.

However, they are still wild animals.

So protect them and yourself by exercising some self-restraint.

And for the children, please ensure that they are supervised so that no unfortunate accident will occur.

Featured Image: Facebook (Ottercity)

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Zhi Hao
Email: [email protected]