Asian Small-Clawed Otter Encounter
Meet the world's smallest and most playful otters
Private Encounter Only
This encounter does NOT include access to the general farm tour.
To explore our 20-acre farm and meet our other 20+ animal species, please book General Admission separately.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes early. If you're late, that time cuts into your experience - no extensions can be given. All animals are on schedules that cannot be interfered with for the safety and comfort of our animals.
Meet Our Playful Otters
Asian Small-Clawed Otters are the smallest of all otter species and absolutely captivating to watch! Known for their dexterity and playful personalities, these semi-aquatic mammals use their sensitive paws to hunt for food in the wild.
This 30-minute encounter offers an intimate look at these charming creatures. Watch them play, learn about their unique behaviors, and enjoy feeding time - one of the most entertaining parts of your visit!
Quick Details
Important Information
Animal Interaction Notice
During normal play and exploration, otters may investigate guests using their mouths or paws, and minor nips or scratches can occur as part of natural, non-aggressive behavior. Guests should be comfortable with close animal interaction and willing to follow staff direction at all times. This experience may not be suitable for guests who are uncomfortable with energetic animals or the possibility of minor scratches.
Animal-Led Experience
This is a live-animal, animal-led experience. Asian small-clawed otters choose how they participate, and behaviors may vary from visit to visit. Activities may include swimming, playing, exploring on land, interacting with enrichment, resting, or observing their surroundings. Access to the pool is available, but swimming is not guaranteed. Specific behaviors or levels of interaction are not guaranteed, and each encounter is unique.
Guest Requirements
Guests must follow all staff instructions at all times. Guests will remain seated for most of the encounter, with brief periods of standing only when directed by staff. Touching or interacting with the otters is permitted only when explicitly instructed by staff.
Risk Acknowledgment
Animal encounters carry inherent risk due to natural animal behaviors, curiosity, quick movements, and water-related activity. Otters may investigate guests using their mouths or paws, and minor nips or scratches may occur as part of normal, non-aggressive behavior. By participating, guests acknowledge and accept the possibility of minor scratches or contact and agree to follow staff guidance to reduce risk.
Safety & Comfort
If a guest experiences discomfort, unexpected contact, or wishes to step away at any time, staff must be notified immediately so the situation can be addressed. Staff reserve the right to modify, pause, or end an encounter at any time for animal welfare or guest safety.
Late Arrivals
Late arrivals may result in reduced session time. Sessions cannot be extended.
Amazing Otter Facts
🦦 Smallest Otters
Asian Small-Clawed Otters are the smallest otter species in the world, weighing just 2-11 pounds!
✋ Dexterous Paws
Unlike other otters, they have partially webbed paws with small claws, making them incredibly dexterous.
🗣️ Chatty Creatures
Otters are very vocal and communicate using at least 12 different sounds, including chirps, squeaks, and growls!
👨👩👧👦 Family Oriented
They're highly social animals that live in family groups and work together to hunt and raise young.
What to Expect
You'll Get To:
- ✓Watch otters play and interact
- ✓Participate in feeding time
- ✓Learn about their natural behaviors
- ✓See their amazing dexterity up close
- ✓Capture incredible photos and videos
- ✓Ask our otter experts questions
What to Bring:
- •Camera or smartphone (you'll want photos!)
- •Comfortable clothes (may get splashed!)
- •Closed-toe shoes required
- •No dangly jewelry
- •Long hair must be pulled back in a bun or ponytail
Otter Encounter Gallery
Book Your Otter Encounter
Reserve your 30-minute otter encounter. These experiences fill up quickly!
Book Otter EncounterFrequently Asked Questions
Can I touch the otters?
Yes, you can touch the otters! However, you cannot pick them up. Our staff will guide you on safe interaction.
Will I get wet?
You might get a little splashed during the encounter! Otters love to play in water, and their enthusiasm can be contagious. We recommend wearing clothes you don't mind getting slightly damp.
Is this suitable for young children?
No, this experience is for ages 8 and up only. Otters can scratch and bite, so this encounter is not suitable for young children.
How many otters will I meet?
We have 4 otters: Asia, Indie, Opal, and Ozzie! You'll get to meet them during your encounter.
Can I book this with General Admission?
Yes, but only if we're open that day for self-guided walking tours. The otter encounter is separate from General Admission, so you'll need to book both experiences individually.
Make It a Full Day!
Combine your otter encounter with other experiences for an unforgettable adventure.