On this #WorldWildlifeDay, we’re shining a spotlight on female North American river otter Maybelle – who currently resides in the Americas Pavilion of your Zoo. After observing moments of breeding between her and RJ in May of 2025, our Reproductive Science team has been carefully monitoring Maybelle’s progesterone (hormone levels). In mid-January of this year, her levels increased, meaning she could be pregnant. If she is expecting, we could see river otter pups arrive between March 18 and March 30 (give or take a few days). Our veterinary team may also be able to confirm a pregnancy via voluntary x-ray early this month. However, with river otters, it’s not always simple. Did you know? River otters have embryonic diapause after breeding, which means the early stage embryos remain dormant for 7-10 months before they implant and start developing. But, these otters can also experience a condition called pseudopregnancy. This means their body goes through many of the same changes as...