They weighed less than 5 pounds 💔
A Surprising Rescue in Shrewsbury
In the bustling town of Shrewsbury, England, a man’s routine drive took an unexpected turn when he spotted a box by the roadside. Curiosity got the better of him, and upon investigating, he was astounded to discover two baby otters huddled together for warmth. Finding such young animals abandoned in a cardboard box is a rarity, prompting the man to spring into action and rush them to a wildlife rescue center.
A Terrifying Start for the Otter Cubs
Upon their arrival at Cuan Wildlife Rescue, the otter cubs were in a state of distress. Weighing less than five pounds and drenched from hours spent in the rain, they were understandably terrified. The dedicated team at Cuan Wildlife Rescue quickly fed the cubs and warmed them up before transferring them to the UK Wild Otter Trust (UKWOT) for long-term rehabilitation.
“When the otter cubs arrived with us, they were quiet, obviously scared, and withdrawn,” said Hatty Brady, communications officer for UKWOT.
The Unimaginable Circumstances
Everyone at UKWOT was shocked that someone could abandon such vulnerable creatures. The person who left the otters did include a note requesting that whoever found them call a wildlife rescue. However, Brady pointed out that taking them directly to a rescue center would have been a more responsible choice. “We were outraged that anyone could dump these two tiny and defenseless animals, who, without their mum and locked in a box, wouldn’t have survived alone for much longer,” she expressed.
Progress and Hope
Fortunately, in the days following their arrival at UKWOT, the otters began to show signs of improvement. “They’re still quite fearful now, but they’re heading in the right direction, and you can see their little personalities starting to come out,” Brady noted.
As UKWOT continues to care for the cubs, they will grow stronger and learn essential skills for survival in their natural habitat. The presence of each other plays a significant role in their rehabilitation.
“Being two of them makes it easier and more likely that they’ll be successfully rehabilitated, as they have each other to grow with and explore their natural otter instincts,” Brady explained.
A Bright Future Ahead
In about a year, UKWOT plans to release the siblings back into the wild, where they truly belong. By that time, the frightening circumstances of their rescue will fade into a distant memory, making way for a future filled with adventure and freedom in their natural environment.