When Will Neo the River Otter Get a Friend?

Two years after the debut of his specially designed habitat, Neo the Neotropical river otter has become one of the most popular residents at the Belize Zoo & Tropical Education Centre.

Neo was rescued as a three-week-old orphan in 2022 and was hand-raised by zookeepers and made his public debut during the zoo’s 40th anniversary celebration in 2023. 

While he remains a crowd favourite, the zoo says it’s very often asked the question, “When will Neo get a friend?” Zookeepers explained in a social media statement that Neotropical river otters (Lontra longicaudis) are naturally solitary, typically living alone or in small family groups.

“While he may not have an otter companion, Neo receives daily care, and attention from our team and of course lots of love from visitors,” the Zoo added. 

Neotropical river otters are semi-aquatic mammals known for their muscular tails, webbed feet, and water-repellent coats. They are skilled swimmers, capable of staying underwater for over five minutes.

River otters are native to Belize’s freshwater habitats and are threatened by illegal hunting and habitat loss.

As part of its conservation mission, the zoo houses almost 20 native mammal species, including jaguars, tapirs, spider monkeys, and much more.