Two vulnerable baby otters found in a flooded field in Stoke by Clare, West Suffolk, have shown significant recovery at South Essex Wildlife Hospital. Rescued in a weakened state and suffering from the parasitic illness coccidia, the male and female cubs have been receiving treatment since mid-February, including warming, hydration, and medication, and are now thriving under the care of the hospital’s vets. They are expected to remain at the facility for about a year before being released back into a suitable river habitat.

The hospital, founded 36 years ago by Sue Schwar, relies heavily on donations and volunteers to care for around 12,000 animals annually. Caring for otters presents unique challenges, particularly in providing their preferred diet of trout, which is harder to source than the fish typically fed to other rescued animals like seals. The team is committed to ensuring the cubs’ full recovery and eventual safe return to the wild.