Otters at Whipsnade Zoo begin celebrating Christmas in style
Keepers at Whipsnade Zoo have created a festive surprise for a pair of joyful otters.
A pair of otters at Whipsnade Zoo have dived into the Christmas spirit by playing with a bag of baubles.
Zookeepers, at the UK’s largest Zoo, wanted to make the holiday season special for playful otters know as Carol and Ernie. In an attempt to do so they spruced up the otters habitat with Christmas decorations, including a bag of brightly coloured baubles, alongside a giant gingerbread man.
Hidden inside the hanging bag of baubles were Carol and Ernie's favourite snacks, such as fish and mealworms, which the otters sniffed out straight away.
Team leader, Sarah Mcgregor, said:
“Carol and Ernie are such a jolly pair, it seemed only right to treat them to some of the season’s traditions, like baubles and decorations."
It is important for the keepers that the otters exercise their natural skills, like hunting, climbing and diving.
Mrs Mcgregor said: "The bauble bag was a brilliant way to ignite their curiosity and get them scavenging around for their advent treats!"
As Christmas looms, the zoo are hoping that Carol and Ernie will get lots of visits from adventurous families looking to spend time together in the great outdoors.