Hogle Zoo Euthanizes River Otter Nessie
The 15-year-old river otter passed away on October 11, 2026, following a decline in health due to acute liver disease.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Wildlife
Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City announced that Nessie, a 15-year-old river otter, was euthanized on October 11, 2026. The care team opted for the procedure after the animal suffered from acute liver disease and worsening health conditions.
Why it matters
The loss of a long-term resident highlights the dedicated medical care and monitoring provided to animals within the zoo system. Staff had been closely observing Nessie after she began displaying signs of lethargy and a reduced appetite.
Nessie was 15 years old at the time of her passing and had been a resident at Hogle Zoo since her arrival from a Louisiana rescue in 2015.
The players
Hogle Zoo
Located in Salt Lake City, this institution serves as a center for wildlife conservation, education, and animal care.
Nessie
She was a rescued river otter who lived at Hogle Zoo for eleven years after coming from a facility in Louisiana.
Howard
He is the remaining river otter living at Hogle Zoo following the death of his companion.
The details
The zoo’s care team provided Nessie with emergency medication and procedures as her condition progressed. Despite these efforts, the decline in her physical state necessitated the decision to perform euthanasia.
Timeline
Nessie arrived at the Hogle Zoo in 2015.
The otter was euthanized on October 11, 2026.
Hogle Zoo announced the death on October 24, 2026.
Culture Shift
Modern zoological care operates under the strict guidelines of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums animal welfare standards. This loss follows the established pattern of prioritizing animal quality of life through rigorous health monitoring and humane intervention protocols.
Visitors to Hogle Zoo may notice changes to the river otter exhibit as staff monitor the adjustment period for the remaining otter, Howard. The zoo continues to maintain its standard operating hours for those planning a visit.
The takeaway
Zoos rely on close observation of behavior to detect medical issues before they become terminal. This situation serves as a reminder of the complex medical management required to provide quality care for elderly animals in human care.
Further reading
Learn more about local conservation efforts in our Wildlife section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Gephardt Daily.
