Google’s tribute to Singapore’s otter clan: A celebration of cuteness and endangered wildlife

A quick Google search today will bring you to the attention of not just any otter but a family of famous furries from Singapore.

An otter clan from Bishan got spotlighted by the search engine in today’s Google Doodle and even handcrafted in felt by artist Helene Leroux.

This might seem totally random, but according to Google, this day in 2016 is the day Singaporeans voted otters to represent the country on its 51st birthday in a poll by The Straits Times.

Like the Doodle, the fur mammals are known for their cuteness but they are a critically endangered species with about 90 otters in total grouped into different families roaming across the city-state, including one commonly sighted in Marina Bay.

In the past few years as the country cleared more land for housing, the otters were sighted more on the streets and were forced to invade homes for food. One even hunted prized koi from a manmade pond.

Their cute persona soon turned sour as some citizens now deem them as pests and called on the government to cull them. But otter fans quickly shut that down and reminded locals that we were invading their space instead.

Nonetheless, otters are still a symbol in Singapore and if you’ve encountered the Bishan family otters on a walk, consider your day blessed.

Today’s hot topic: Should we fear otter colonization? Read more.

With only about 90 left, shouldn’t we be kind to each otter? Read more.

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