Private Otter Encounter Experience in Schnecksville, PA
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, as this is a mostly stationary and low-impact activity involving light walking and standing.
Overview
Get up close with Luani, a North American River Otter, during an exclusive private encounter at Lehigh Valley Zoo. Help prepare his habitat, feed him breakfast, and take home a unique keepsake.
Otter Encounter
Starting 3/15 (Sat & Sun; Wed soon) • 30 Minutes • Ages 5+
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About This Adventure
Immerse yourself in a unique one-on-one experience with Luani, the North American River Otter! Assist keepers in preparing his habitat, create enrichment, and watch him play. Enjoy feeding him breakfast and receive a special painting made by Luani to commemorate this unforgettable encounter before the Zoo opens to the public.
Experience a One-on-One Interaction with our North American River Otters, Luani & Piper!
Duration
30 Minutes
About
Experience a one-on-one interaction with our North American River Otter, Luani! When you book your own private encounter you will be invited to come to the Zoo before hours and assist an otter keeper with preparing the otter exhibit for the day. You will get to create and instruct the keepers on where to place enrichment in his habitat, and then watch as the otter interacts with your creations! You will then have the exciting opportunity to throw Luani his breakfast and watch him dive, play, and swim! To commemorate the encounter, keepers will give you a very special painting made by our amazing otter! Up to two additional paintings can be purchased at an additional cost. Each participant will have the opportunity to feed and interact through protected contact during the 20-30 minute experience! Participants will then be able to enjoy the Zoo right before it opens.
Requirements and Reservations
- Participants must be at least 5 years old
- Participants under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult
- Reservations must be made at least one week in advance to your desired date
- Masks are required for this encounter
If you are redeeming an Otter Encounter Gift Card, please read below.
Once you choose an available date and select Private Group, the following line will then appear below: Add promo or discount code.
Click on this option and a blank window will appear immediately below the text. This is where you will enter your electronic gift card code.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time to complete any registration and get settled comfortably.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
Dress casually and in layers since you’ll be both indoors and outdoors during the visit.
Follow Keeper Instructions
Always listen carefully to the zookeepers for safety guidelines and animal handling advice.
Bring a Camera
Capture your special moments but avoid flash photography to keep Luani calm and comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- North American River Otter
- Eastern Box Turtle
History
Lehigh Valley Zoo began as a wildlife park focused on preservation and education since 1974, evolving into a family-friendly animal haven in Schnecksville.
Conservation
Lehigh Valley Zoo participates in regional breeding and habitat restoration programs aimed at protecting threatened native species like the North American River Otter.
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Adventure Hotspots in Allentown
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Support your feet during your time at the zoo and moving between enclosures.
Light jacket or layers
Spring weather can be cool; layering ensures your comfort throughout the visit.
spring specific
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during any time spent outdoors in the summer months.
summer specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture memorable moments of your unique otter experience.