Media release

26 November 2014

Wellington Zoo saddened by passing of Bud the Otter

Wellington Zoo staff and volunteers were saddened today after the decision was made to euthanise the Zoo’s male Asian Short-clawed Otter, Bud.

Bud was diagnosed with arthritis in May and treated by the veterinary team at The Nest Te Kōhanga. After his conditioned worsened, and pain relief was no longer effective, the choice was made to humanely euthanise him.

“It was a sad decision to make, and it always comes down to the animal’s quality of life. After careful consideration of Bud’s condition and how effectively we could manage his arthritis and pain, it was agreed that euthanising him was the most humane and respectful thing to do,” said Karen Fifield, Chief Executive.

Bud was 14 years old. Asian Short-Clawed Otters have an average life span of 11–16 years.

Bud shared his habitat with one female, Jem. Otters are social animals, so Jem will move to Brooklands Zoo in New Plymouth in the next few days to be housed with their Otters.

Wellington Zoo plans to welcome new Otters in early 2015.

About Asian Small-Clawed Otters

Asian Small-Clawed Otters are the smallest Otter species, weighing no more than 5kg. They are classified as vulnerable in the wild, with habitat loss their biggest threat. While other Otters use their mouths to catch prey, Asian Small-Clawed Otters prefer to use their feet. Otters are social carnivores that live in family groups of up to 12 animals.

About Wellington Zoo

Wellington Zoo is New Zealand's first Zoo, established in 1906, and is Wellington’s oldest conservation organisation. Home to over 500 native and exotic animals, Wellington Zoo became a charitable trust in 2003.

Wellington Zoo became the world’s first carboNZero certified zoo in May 2013.

Wellington Zoo is an accredited member of the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia and a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

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