Two young otter cubs, Mera and Pip, formed an extraordinary bond after being rescued by the UK Wild Otter Trust in Devon. Initially scared and alone, the pair became inseparable friends, providing each other with companionship and confidence during their rehabilitation.
The charity emphasized the importance of pairing rescued otter cubs, as it allows them to learn crucial survival skills together. “When these two tiny abandoned cubs found their way to us, we knew they’d make a wonderful pair,” shared the organization.
Mera, the first cub, was found alone in a field near the River Deben in Suffolk at just 16 weeks old. She was in poor condition, having been without her mother for some time. “It was touch and go when she arrived,” said Colin Sneddon, director of otter welfare and rehabilitation. “She needed round-the-clock care and several weeks of hand-rearing.”
A week later, Pip was discovered under an apple tree in Exeter and brought to the rescue center. After weeks of care, the two cubs were introduced just before Christmas. Initially hesitant, they gradually grew closer. “On Christmas Day, I found them peeking out of the same holt,” said Dave Webb, the charity’s founder. “From then on, they thrived, displaying all the behaviors of healthy otters and clearly showing a lot of love for each other.”
After a year of rehabilitation, Mera and Pip were released back into the wild together this past September, strong and prepared to live independently. While it’s uncertain if they remain together, their shared journey has left a lasting impression.
The UK Wild Otter Trust relies on public support to continue its work, with each rescue and rehabilitation costing around £3,500 and taking a year to complete. “Thanks to our supporters, we can give cubs like Mera and Pip a second chance at life,” added Webb.