Rescued Otter Cubs Form Inseparable Bond at North Devon Rehabilitation Centre
The UK Wild Otter Trust is currently caring for two tiny, abandoned Eurasian otter cubs at its specialist rehabilitation centre in North Devon, where the animals have been paired together and are quickly becoming inseparable companions. The cubs, named Lincoln and Gypsy, were rescued in December from different parts of the country and are now thriving under the Trust's expert supervision.
Rescue Operations from Lincoln and Oxfordshire
Lincoln, a male cub named after the city where he was found, was rescued by Wild Lives Rescue after a concerned member of the public raised the alarm. When discovered, he weighed just over one kilogram, indicating he was in a vulnerable state. Meanwhile, Gypsy, a female cub, arrived at Oxfordshire Wildlife Rescue on December 9, appearing to be less than three months old at the time. Both cubs were found abandoned, likely separated from their mothers, which prompted immediate intervention from wildlife charities.
Collaborative Care and Rehabilitation Efforts
Working closely with the two initial rescue organisations, the UK Wild Otter Trust stepped in to guide the early care of the otter cubs. The Trust monitored their progress meticulously until both were strong enough to be transported to its North Devon facility. Dave Webb, founder and CEO of the UK Wild Otter Trust, emphasised the critical timing of the rescues, stating that the cubs were discovered just in time to save their lives.
"The cubs are making great progress, and it's a good thing they were discovered when they were," Mr Webb said. "From their condition, it's clear they'd been without their mother for quite some time, which sadly often means she's been killed, frequently in a road collision. Without rescue, they wouldn't have lasted much longer."
Benefits of Pairing Otter Cubs for Future Release
Mr Webb explained that pairing otter cubs of roughly the same age significantly improves their chances of thriving once re-released into the wild. Lincoln and Gypsy, estimated to be around three to four months old based on their weights, were found at almost exactly the same stage of development, making them ideal companions for one another.
"We began introducing them earlier this month, and they've already formed a strong bond," he added. "Growing up together will hugely improve their chances when they're ready to return to the wild in just over a year."
Charity's Busy Period and Fundraising Success
The recent rescues occur during an exceptionally busy period for the UK Wild Otter Trust. The charity recently celebrated surpassing its fundraising target after appealing to the public for support. This appeal was launched when the Trust was given only six months to relocate its entire rescue centre to a new site in North Devon. Despite these challenges, the volunteer-run team has continued its vital work rescuing and rehabilitating injured and abandoned otter cubs from across the UK, demonstrating unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation.
