Otterly Adorable: Love Blooms at Newquay Zoo as New Arrival Meets His Match

Love is in the air at Newquay Zoo, where a new male otter, Branston, has arrived just in time for Valentine’s Day. The four-year-old Asian short-clawed otter made the journey from Messingham Zoo last night and was introduced to his new partner, Tamale, this morning over a breakfast buffet of trout and smelt.

A New Beginning for Tamale

Branston’s arrival marks an important step in the conservation breeding programme for this playful and intelligent species. He is easily recognised by his unique markings and slightly larger, darker appearance compared to Tamale, who was born at Newquay Zoo in 2019.

His introduction follows the recent departure of Tamale’s brother, Lloyd, who moved earlier this week to form a new breeding pair at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Branston to Newquay Zoo, and we couldn’t have asked for a more fitting day to introduce him to Tamale,” said Mike, team leader of animals at Newquay Zoo. “Asian short-clawed otters form strong pair bonds, and our hope is that this new couple will settle in quickly and start building a nest together very soon.”

A Species Under Threat

Asian short-clawed otters (Aonyx cinereus) are the smallest otter species in the world and are known for their social nature and intelligence. Native to wetlands and riverbanks across South and Southeast Asia, they are currently classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to habitat destruction, the illegal pet trade, pollution, and overfishing.

See the Romance Unfold

For now, Branston and Tamale will spend the day bonding in their playroom and nesting box before Branston explores his new outdoor home in the Oriental Garden. Visitors can see the budding romance unfold daily from 10 a.m.

Visitor Information

Newquay Zoo is offering special Winter pricing, with reduced admission for a limited time:

• Adults: £17 (normally £19)
• Children: £12.50 (normally £14.25)
• Children under 3: Free

All prices include a Gift Aid donation, helping to support Wild Planet Trust’s conservation work at no extra cost to visitors.

📍 Opening hours: Daily from 10 a.m. (current closing time 4.30 p.m.)
🚗 Free parking in the Cornwall Council car park adjacent to Newquay Zoo
♿ Full accessibility
🍴 On-site refreshments and retail facilities

Tickets can be booked in advance online at newquayzoo.org.uk.

Protecting Wildlife for the Future

Newquay Zoo is part of the Wild Planet Trust, a conservation charity that also operates Paignton Zoo and three UK nature reserves. Established in 1969, Newquay Zoo spans 13 acres and welcomes over 140,000 visitors annually. It is home to more than 1,000 animals across 120 species, actively contributing to breeding programmes for endangered wildlife.

As a British & Irish Association of Zoos & Aquariums (BIAZA) accredited zoo, Newquay Zoo plays a crucial role in conservation, education, and scientific research, working to protect wildlife both in the UK and globally.

Visitors to Newquay Zoo not only get to witness the playful antics of Branston and Tamale but also contribute to the vital conservation efforts protecting otters and other endangered species for future generations.