Learn How Orangutans and Otters Live Together at the Zoo

Have you ever heard of a multi-species zoo exhibit? Basically, it means two or more different animals harmoniously coexisting and interacting together in the same space. Check this out. The penguin and the leopard sharks at San Diego Zoo are more than happy to swim alongside one another. And it appears that the wolf guenon monkey is making the most of hanging out with his mate, the pygmy hippo. Having more than one species in an exhibit encourages an interactive and dynamic experience for both the animals and the visitors. The animals are also exposed to constant enrichment through species interaction. And these interactions can be very interesting to observe. Here at the Singapore Zoo, the resident orangutan family have teamed up with the Asian small-clawed otters to create a very dynamic multi-species exhibit. While this little otter family are outnumbered by the orangutans two to one, it is quite clear that they are the decision-makers around here. But interestingly, both the otters and the orangutans work together to ensure that their home is well looked after. The otters spend most of their morning patrolling the island, making sure that everything is as it should be. Then as a team, they strategically scent mark certain areas so that everyone knows whose spot is whose. And while the otters have the ground covered, the orangutans thrive up high. Swinging from branch to branch, they keep an eye on everything from above. Even the youngsters are learning the ropes. But some orangutans are clearly more interested in other activities. It's incredibly important to keep each animal's temperament and personality in mind when creating a multi-species exhibit. And by the looks of it, this unique mix of curious orangutans and cheeky otters are getting along famously.