After six years, the Děčín Zoo has a litter of fishing cat kittens

The Děčín Zoo is celebrating the successful breeding of an otter. Two cubs—a male and a female—were born on June 22 and are thriving. Visitors will be able to see them in a few weeks, once they begin exploring their outdoor enclosure.

The last cubs of this rare species were born at the Děčín Zoo in 2020. A new breeding pair was finally formed this past January thanks to cooperation within the European breeding program. The successful rearing of the cubs confirms that the fishing cats have very good conditions here.

The fishing cat is an endangered species that inhabits wetlands, mangrove forests, and areas near water. It is an excellent swimmer and can hunt its prey—primarily fish and other aquatic animals—even underwater. The Děčín Zoo has been breeding this exceptional species for many years, and this year’s new addition represents a significant success for its conservation.