08/28/2026
For almost 18 years, Asian small-clawed otter, Gus, left his mark. And in ways we are still discovering, his legacy will reach far beyond his own lifetime.
Gus was among the oldest males of his species in the North American zoo population, living well beyond the 14.7-year median life expectancy for males in professional care. As he grew older, Gus became an important part of how our Animal Care and Conservation Medicine teams continue to learn about caring for animals through every stage of life.
His care evolved along with him. Through the years, our teams closely monitored changes in his behavior, mobility, appetite and activity, adapted his environment to help him comfortably navigate his spaces, and worked together to address the health challenges that can accompany advanced age. What they learned through Gus has also contributed to conversations with colleagues at other zoological organizations about caring for geriatric Asian small-clawed otters.
Recently, after closely managing several age-related health concerns, Gus’s health declined. With his wellbeing and quality of life at the center of every decision, our Animal Care and Conservation Medicine teams made the difficult decision for humane euthanasia. While we are deeply saddened by his loss, there is so much more to celebrate about Gus’s remarkable life.
Gus came to the Columbus Zoo in 2014, at 5 years old, through a breeding recommendation and was eventually introduced to Peanut. Their connection was immediate, and together, they raised two litters. The Animal Care team remembers Gus as a proud dad who would bring his pups out of the nest, while Peanut was usually quick to carry them right back inside. The two remained closely bonded throughout their lives together.
Gus was also an important ambassador for Asian small-clawed otters. While their playful appearances have made the species popular on social media, Asian small-clawed otters face serious threats, including the illegal pet trade. Through Gus, generations of guests had an opportunity to learn about these remarkable animals and the expertise, resources and lifelong commitment required to care for them.
To his care team, though, Gus was also simply Gus: a gentle, patient otter who loved burrowing, rubbing and tunneling through fresh bedding and enrichment. Hay, straw, wood wool, shavings, mulch, towels and even Astroturf were among his favorites. During his final days, his caregivers filled his spaces with the things he loved.
Gus leaves behind generations of otters, countless memories and knowledge that will help shape the care of animals for years to come.
In the coming weeks, we’ll share more about the growing field of geriatric animal care at the Columbus Zoo and how animals like Gus are helping our teams better understand what it means to provide exceptional care throughout an animal’s entire life.
For now, we celebrate Gus and his many extraordinary years.
