First otter cubs of the year successfully released back into the wild

The UK Wild Otter Trust is celebrating after releasing the first rescued otter cubs of the year.

Between March eighth and March fifteenth, eight cubs were returned to the wild after months of care at the North Devon rescue centre, which is run by volunteers.

The cubs, named Gara, Ebbw, Taw, Bagel, Heidi, Stroodle, Solva, and Tas, were found across the UK after becoming separated from their mothers, likely due to traffic accidents or the destruction of their natural homes. 

Despite efforts to find their mothers, the cubs were left alone and in need of rescue.

Some of the cubs weighed less than one kilogram when they arrived at the centre.

After months of care, they had grown to between four and seven and a half kilograms, showing how much stronger they had become.

The rescued cubs came from different places, including Devon, Wales, North Yorkshire, Gloucestershire, and Bideford. 

After receiving expert care, they were released into safe wild areas where they have the best chance of surviving.

Dave Webb, founder of the UK Wild Otter Trust, said: “It’s always an incredible moment when we can return these animals to the wild where they belong. Our goal is to ensure each otter has the best possible chance at a natural life, and seeing these cubs take their first steps back into the wild is hugely rewarding.”

The UK Wild Otter Trust is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating otters in need. 

The charity urges people to report any lone or injured otter cubs so they can receive the care they need.