WATCH: River Otters Participate In 'Enrichment' Programs At Norristown Zoo

It’s National Zookeeper Week, and the Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown is marking the occasion not only by honoring their technicians, but by showcasing the development of their animals.

River otters were the focus on Wednesday, as the slick but cuddly-looking creatures ate treats off of a “Christmas tree” in the water.

It was part of what zookeepers termed an enrichment program, aimed at stimulating and entertaining the otters.

According to the American Association of Zookeepers, the goals of this week are to:

• Promote the dedication and hard work of animal care professionals year round
• Celebrate animal care professionals’ achievements during the third week in July
• Share the accomplishments of AAZK chapters
• Create awareness of AAZK chapters’ dedication to conservation and wildlife to the public
• Communicate the necessity for zoos and aquariums by way of animal care professionalism, research, and fundraising efforts

In Norristown, the week will be capped by a special guest on Sunday, July 26: the Phillie Phanatic will be at the Zoo from 2 until 3 p.m.

All Philadelphia sports teams are being celebrated with games and other activities throughout the day.

Images courtesy Elmwood Park Zoo.