Calgary Zoo otter pup dies suddenly while playing with littermate

Three-month-old North American river otter Remi died on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (Calgary Zoo)

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo has announced the death of an otter pup.

Three-month-old North American river otter Remi died on Tuesday while in the pool.

The zoo says Remi was playing in the water with littermate Howe, but failed to resurface.

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A necropsy determined the otter pup suffered a life-ending cervical spinal cord injury during play.

“We believe her passing was swift and she did not suffer,” the zoo said in a Wednesday social media post. “While the test results confirm it was a tragic accident, they offer little comfort in a time of such deep sorrow.”

Though Remi’s time at the zoo was brief, officials say she left a lasting impression, and will be fondly remembered for her “playful, curious nature” and her “tender moments” with Howe and her mom Kate.

“We are leaning on one another as we mourn this heartbreaking loss and honour the short but meaningful life of a truly special little otter.”