North Devon otter charity launches rescue boat to save stranded cubs

A wildlife charity based in North Devon is expanding its rescue efforts with the addition of a new boat to help stranded otter cubs across the UK.

The UK Wild Otter Trust, which rescues and rehabilitates otter cubs from all over the country, announced the arrival of the boat on Monday 17 March. 

It will allow the team to reach cubs more quickly and safely, particularly in cases where water is the only access route.

The trust frequently faces challenges when cubs are trapped in waterlogged or hard-to-reach areas. 

The new boat will help speed up rescue operations and improve safety for both the animals and the team.

“We’ve had cases where cubs are stranded in waterlogged areas and we just can't get to them without a boat. And I’m not a fan of getting wet!” said Dave Webb, founder and CEO of the trust.

“This boat will make a huge difference when we need to get to them fast, and will hopefully see even more cubs saved each year.”

The vessel was supplied at a generous discount by Otter Boats, a local company based in Bideford, and funded through donations from the trust’s supporters.

With the addition of the boat, the charity can now conduct more thorough searches along watercourses for reported cubs, ensuring no cub is left behind.

“This boat is a game-changer for us,” said Mr Webb.

“It’s going to make our rescues quicker and safer for everyone involved. We want to say a massive thanks to Otter Boats of Bideford for the discount and of course to our supporters for their continued contributions.

“This is just another step in the UK Wild Otter Trust’s mission to protect and rescue otters across the UK.”