Adventure Collective
North American River Otter Feeding at CuriOdyssey, San Mateo - San Francisco

North American River Otter Feeding at CuriOdyssey, San Mateo

San Mateoeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

20 minutes

Fitness Level

No special fitness level required; suitable for most ages 8 and up.

Overview

Meet Gunner, the playful river otter at CuriOdyssey in San Mateo! Join a 20-minute private feeding session and learn fascinating facts from a keeper as you feed this charming otter.

San Mateo, California

North American River Otter Feeding

Feed Gunner, our loveable North American River Otter! Participants must be 8 years or older

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Adventure Photos

North American River Otter Feeding photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of feeding Gunner, the river otter, in a unique 20-minute interactive session! Participants aged 7 and older can toss fish and veggies while learning from a knowledgeable keeper. This unforgettable encounter promises fun and education, making it a perfect outing for families and animal lovers alike.

Participants must be 8 years of age or older!


Rates & Inclusions

Program Rate: $150

  • 20 minute program with the river otter and a keeper
  • Includes 2 adults, and their children or grandchildren
    • Members are welcome to use their parking passes
    • 1 person may feed the river otter at a time, but multiple can switch before Gunner is given his full meal
    • Mask is strongly recommended; if you don't have a mask, one will be provided for you.
    • Waiver of liability is required and will be provided on the day of the river otter feeding

Additional guests

Additional guests are welcome to reserve their own tickets to CuriOdyssey and watch with the public.

For the most up-to-date ticket information, pricing, and availability, please visit our website to reserve your tickets.


Duration

  • 20 minutes
  • Please plan to arrive a few minutes early to find parking

About The Otter Feeding

For safety, participants must be 8 years or older, and taller than 4ft.

Our river otter feeding is a 20-minute experience where you’ll be escorted to a feeding platform to hand toss fish and/or vegetables into Gunner's enclosure while a keeper talks and answers your questions.

Participants will be given verbal instructions, asked to climb stairs, wash their hands, and wear gloves.

Gunner eats 5oz-9oz per meal. This means his meal will be for the guest(s) of honor !


Availability

  • Tuesdays through Sundays at 4:30pm
  • Bookings are made 2 weeks out

FAQ's

I have kids who are under 8 years old, can they feed the otter?

Due to safety guidelines, we are unable to offer this program for guests under 8 years old.

Do my kids need to be 4ft tall?

The window that we throw from is roughly the height of a child's torso. This height requirement is to ensure your child can see & throw without a stepstool or additional assistance.

Can I bring my kids friends? Or other relatives?

If someone in your group is NOT from your household, we must receive written or verbal consent from their parent or guardian to participate in the program. Otherwise, please have additional guests who want to come and watch purchase their own ticket to enter the museum.

Can I book this as part of my kids birthday party?

Certainly! Please check our availability first before booking your party and otter feeding separately. Note the otter feeding would occur at 4pm regardless of your party time. One person will have the opportunity to feed the river otter.

Still have questions? Email us! birthdays@curiodyssey.org

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early

Arriving 10 minutes before your session ensures you get briefed and settled comfortably for the feeding experience.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Choose casual, outdoor-friendly clothes as the feeding area is partially outside and close to the water.

Supervise Children Closely

Children 8 and older are welcome, but adults should closely supervise to ensure safe interaction with the otter enclosure.

Follow Keeper Instructions

Always listen to the keeper’s guidance on how and what to feed Gunner to keep the otter safe and happy.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • North American river otters
  • Native California scrub jays frequent the area

History

CuriOdyssey was established in 1954 and focuses on science education and conservation of native California wildlife.

Conservation

CuriOdyssey promotes environmental stewardship through hands-on learning and supports habitat preservation for river otters and other native animals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Supportive shoes help you navigate the outdoor areas comfortably during your visit.

Light Jacket or Sweater

Bring an extra layer in cooler months to stay comfortable during the outdoor feeding session.

fall specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated especially if visiting during warmer periods.

summer specific

Camera or Smartphone

Capture memorable moments of your interaction with Gunner and the scenic surroundings.