FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | July 30, 2025

Media contact: Erika Banter, Animal Department Assistant Manager

ejoseck@mmzoo.org | (540)343-3241 | http://www.mmzoo.org

Mill Mountain Zoo Welcomes Judy the Otter to the Family

Roanoke, Virginia — Mill Mountain Zoo is thrilled to introduce its newest resident: Judy, a lively two-year-old Asian small-clawed otter! Judy joins Porkchop, the Zoo’s beloved 14-year-oldmale otter, and is already settling into her new habitat.

Asian small-clawed otters are the smallest otter species in the world and are known for their social nature, playful energy, and incredible dexterity. Judy embodies all of that and more—she’s curious, clever, and full of youthful energy. She’s been delighting keepers with her explorations and playful antics since arriving.

“Judy is a wonderful addition to the Mill Mountain Zoo family,” said Niki Voudren, Executive Director. “She brings youth and excitement to Porkchop’s life and plenty of joy and entertainment to our team and our visitors. Our animal care team has been working closely to monitor their introductions and ensure a positive transition, and they are having a blast together.”

Guests can now see Judy and Porkchop together in their specialized habitat, where they can often be spotted splashing in their pool, foraging for rocks and treats, or napping together in cozy spots.

Judy’s arrival highlights Mill Mountain Zoo’s continued commitment to wildlife conservation and education. Asian small-clawed otters are classified as Vulnerable in the wild, primarily due to habitat loss, pollution, and illegal wildlife trade. By welcoming Judy, the Zoo aims to help raise awareness about the challenges facing her species and inspire conservation action.

Come meet Judy on your next visit and discover why these otters are one of the most popular animals at Mill Mountain Zoo!

About Mill Mountain Zoo

Mill Mountain Zoo is governed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and accredited by the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), demonstrating excellence in animal welfare, safety, and ethics on a national level.

All animal residents are critically endangered, threatened, vulnerable, or non-releasable due to injury, captive birth, or owner relinquishment. The Zoo participates in national and international Species Survival Plans, humane research, and conservation initiatives.

Located atop Mill Mountain, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mill Mountain Zoo has been a Roanoke institution since 1952. Operated by the non-profit Blue Ridge Zoological Society of Virginia, Inc., the Zoo is dedicated to promoting appreciation and understanding of wildlife and habitat preservation through quality exhibits, educational programming, and collaboration with other conservation organizations.

Mill Mountain Zoo upholds three core beliefs: excellence in animal care, conservation management of endangered species, and fostering science education through its animal collection.

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