Nora the River Otter

Nora

Nora's Fun Facts!

  • Favorite enrichment is ice piles. This enrichment has encouraged the natural behavior of digging, foraging, and chasing. She enjoys pushing and chasing the ice around. Nora also eats the small ice pieces.
  • She is food motivated and intelligent. She has learned new behaviors quickly during training sessions.
  • She loves to climb which is a natural behavior for otters.

The Virginia Living Museum is thrilled to announce the arrival of Nora, a delightful North American river otter, who is set to join the Museum after her heartwarming rescue and care at the Maryland Zoo and will join the VLM’s mission to educate the public about the importance of protecting native species and habitats. Later this year, guests can come to meet Nora and witness her playful antics in her new home!

Nora, whose name cleverly reflects her species (N.A.R.O.), was rescued last year as an abandoned pup. Thanks to the dedicated team at the Maryland Zoo, she has grown into a vibrant and curious young otter, capturing the hearts of visitors and staff alike. “We are beyond excited to welcome Nora to the Virginia Living Museum,” said Lyn Heller. “Her spirited personality and captivating charm will surely endear her to our guests.”

Having received exceptional care and training at the Maryland Zoo, Nora has mastered essential skills needed for her species, including hunting and foraging. As she begins her new adventure at the Virginia Living Museum, Nora will also be introduced to her new companion, Moe. This transition aligns with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ North American River Otter Species Survival Plan, which aims to promote genetic diversity and species wellbeing through thoughtful collaboration.

Sponsored by Berry & Company

Heads Up!

The Virginia Living Museum will open at 11AM to the public today to allow staff to get operations up and running after extensive power loss last night.

This will NOT interfere with regular summer camp operations, camp will begin at 9AM. 

Thank you for your patience!

Wild Explorations

Heads Up! The Changing Exhibit Gallery, where our Wild Explorations exhibit lives, will close at 3PM today in preparation for an after hours event!