Taipei Zoo

Under the coordination of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) Ex-situ Programme (EEP), Taipei Zoo has arranged for an Asian small-clawed otter to be transferred to Auckland Zoo in New Zealand as part of an ex-situ conservation population exchange. The female otter, “Xiang Cheng,” departed Taipei on the evening of May 12 and arrived safely in New Zealand on the morning of May 13. After completing quarantine, she will join the local otter group.

The Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus) is the smallest otter species, distributed across wetlands, rivers, and lakes from South to Southeast Asia. It is a highly social animal, often living in family groups of more than a dozen individuals. These otters communicate through a variety of vocalizations and also by rubbing scent glands near the base of the tail against surfaces to convey information. The species is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List, facing threats such as illegal capture for the pet trade. For example, “Mi Xiang,” the mother of “Xiang Cheng,” was rescued and brought to Taipei Zoo through law enforcement action. In addition, otters are important ecological indicator species, as their survival depends on clean water, unpolluted habitats, and sufficient food resources—making their population status a reflection of overall ecosystem health.

At Auckland Zoo, the Asian small-clawed otters are housed in the Southeast Asia-themed exhibit area. This transfer, coordinated by EAZA, aims to enhance genetic diversity through population exchange and maintain a healthy ex-situ population. After a journey of more than ten hours across hemispheres, “Xiang Cheng” safely arrived at Auckland Zoo around midday on May 13. We wish her all the best in adapting to her new environment and hope she will soon become part of her new otter family.