Otters escape from Wisconsin zoo during snowstorm

In the United States, specifically in Green Bay, Wisconsin, two North American river otters, Louie and Ophelia, managed to escape from their enclosure at the NEW Zoo & Adventure Park. This event occurred on Thursday, March 20, 2025, during a significant winter storm. The zookeepers discovered that the otters had slipped out through a small breach they had enlarged in the buried fencing of their habitat. Their absence was quickly noted the following morning by zookeepers conducting standard morning rounds, leading to the activation of emergency procedures for animal escapes. The zoo reported that they had captured some security footage showing the otters frolicking in the snow shortly after their escape. The zoo staff's search has been focused primarily on the surrounding areas where tracks were found. Initial reports indicated that Louie and Ophelia had not strayed far from the zoo, as otters tend to be territorial animals. Zookeepers utilized a variety of methods in the search which included employing a professional tracker and setting traps. However, their efforts faced complications from neighboring raccoons, which thwarted their attempts to verify sightings and capture the elusive otters. Despite challenges, the zoo remained hopeful, receiving multiple reports of sightings alongside videos and photos from the public, including evidence showing the pair enjoying their newfound freedom in the wintry landscape. Zoological officials stated that the animals are native to the Wisconsin area and are capable of surviving in such cold conditions thanks to the availability of natural ponds and waterways that provide food and shelter. They reassured the public that Louie and Ophelia are not a threat to people and are likely to avoid human contact. Instead, the focus remained on ensuring their safe return to the zoo. Search efforts continued to involve the community as well; locals were encouraged to report sightings, enhancing the chance of safely recovering the otters. As days passed without a complete recovery, the quest to locate the two otters became more intricate. The involvement of motion-activated cameras was introduced to monitor areas frequented by Louie and Ophelia. They strategically placed raccoon-proof traps, ensuring that other wildlife wouldn't unintentionally capture the otters before they could be safely retrieved. The zoo workers remained optimistic, as their territories usually mean they would not wander too far from home. Reports suggested that Louie and Ophelia seemed to enjoy their freedom, making joyful tracks and slides in the snow, attracting attention from zoo staff and onlookers alike. The situation highlighted the natural instincts of these animals and the lengths they would go to explore beyond their enclosures, making it a fascinating story of both animal instinct and human intervention in wildlife management.