Orphaned otter cub rescued
Noah
AN orphaned otter cub found alone and crying out for his mum is recovering in the Scottish SPCA’s care.
The distressed animal was discovered by a member of the public at Kirtle Water near Eaglesfield.
Now named Noah, the seven week old male is being rehabilitated at the charity’s National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross, Clackmannanshire.
Centre manager Colin Seddon said: “A man spotted Noah alone in the water, calling out, but quite rightly left him for 24 hours to give mum a chance to return for him.
“When he went back the following day, Noah was still alone and clearly in distress so the man collected him before contacting us for help.
“The water had risen due to the recent bad weather so it’s likely Noah and his mother were separated after one of them was swept away by the current. It’s also possible mum has been killed or frightened off.
“Otters usually remain with their parents until they’re around a year old so Noah is far too young to be by himself and wouldn’t have been able to survive in the wild.
“He was very subdued and weak when he first came to us but he’s now weaning onto solid food and is a lot brighter.
“Soon we’ll take a hands off approach to allow Noah to develop a healthy and natural fear of humans, which is vital if he’s to survive in the wild.
“We’re very hopeful that in around twelve months we’ll be able to release Noah back into his natural habitat.”
Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed animal should call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.
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Weather for Newton Stewart
Saturday 18 May 2013
Today
Heavy rain
Temperature: 8 C to 11 C
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Wind direction: North
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