Otters Get a New Home With Fish‑Throwing Pools

The John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids just opened a huge new area for its river otters. The space is more than three times larger than the old exhibit and holds over 21, 000 gallons of water. It was built with money from the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation and fits into the zoo’s ten‑year plan. The new enclosure lets visitors see the otters from all sides, even through curved acrylic that shows them swimming above. Kids can crawl into a tunnel to watch the animals in a shallow pool, while adults can view the den from an accessible spot. A special feature is a fish cannon that shoots fish into the water, making the otters hunt like they do in nature.

The project also talks about keeping our rivers clean. A big otter statue made from river trash is the centerpiece, and the building uses solar panels, geothermal heating, and a green roof to stay energy efficient. The theme “We All Need Clean Water” reminds guests that healthy waterways help all wildlife, including the otters. The zoo plans to house up to five North American river otters here. These animals were once rare in Michigan because of pollution and loss of habitat, but they are now coming back thanks to cleanup efforts. The new exhibit aims to show how conservation can succeed and inspire visitors of all ages. The zoo will celebrate the opening with a week‑long “OtterPalooza” event that includes talks, fun facts, and family activities. Admission starts at about $17 for kids and seniors and $22 for adults on weekdays, with higher prices on weekends. Members and county residents can park for free.

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