DUDLEY Zoo and Castle has launched a community art trail to shine a spotlight on the threats facing otters.
Eight Asian short-clawed otter sculptures have been decorated over the last few months by talented local artists to create the DZC Spotter Otter trail.
The project was officially launched by the Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Andrea Goddard, on Saturday morning with some of the artists and their families.
The sculptures have been inspired by the zoo, the natural world, the Black Country and pop culture. To find out more about the trail and the artists click here.
Jack Williams, head of education and conservation at the zoo, said: “We’re incredibly excited about this project, which not only aims to provide the local community with a unique opportunity to engage with wildlife, but we also hope to shine a spotlight on the threats both native and non-native otters are facing in the wild.”
The otters will be in situ around the zoo site this week as part of the attraction’s half-term Carnivore Week celebrations.
After the school holidays they’ll move out to various venues around the Dudley borough for residents to discover, before returning to the zoo in time for the summer holidays.
At the end of the season the statues will be auctioned off to raise funds for The UK Wild Otter Trust and The Himalayan Otter Network.
To find out more about the trail and the artists involved visit dudleyzoo.org.uk/spotter-otter-trail
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