Mascot
The Salt Lake 2002 Paralympic mascot was Otto the Otter. Nearly wiped out by over-trapping and environmental damage, Utah’s river otters were successfully reintroduced to the Green River and other areas. Considered by ancient Indian tribes to be one of the most powerful of all animals, the otter was chosen as the mascot of the Salt Lake 2002 Paralympic Winter Games as an embodiment of vitality and agility, and a representation of each Paralympian’s spirit.