Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Bronx Zoo Spotter Captures First River Otter in Century

8/20/2026

24 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo recorded a river otter on the Bronx River on June 23, 2026, the first sighting in a century.
Scientist RJ Hawkins captured the otter on a motion-activated camera and said, “I could hardly believe what I was seeing.”
Researchers said otters need water and fish, so the sighting signals improved Bronx River water quality, though one image does not prove a colony.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo recorded a river otter on the Bronx River on June 23, 2026, the first sighting in a century.
Scientist RJ Hawkins captured the otter on a motion-activated camera and said, “I could hardly believe what I was seeing.”
Researchers said otters need water and fish, so the sighting signals improved Bronx River water quality, though one image does not prove a colony.