This orphaned baby otter got stuck inside a delivery van after being attacked by birds

This adorable baby otter must be the most shocking ‘thing’ ever found stuck in an engine compartment. The female cutie got trapped inside a Tesco delivery van escaping the birds' attack and caused quite a fuss amongst the rescue team and supermarket staff. Thanks to their efforts, the otter is now safe and well.

Attacked by birds

After a young otter was spotted being attacked by birds, the tiny animal ran seeking refuge under the delivery van and ended up stuck inside the engine compartment.

It took RSPCA Inspector Caroline Richardson around an hour to catch the little pup.

She said:

When I got the call, I must admit, I expected to find a ferret or a rat stuck in the engine - but when I reached in to get a better look, there was the cutest little face staring back at me.

The rescue operation

As the stubborn otter wasn't coming out on her own, the excited rescue team used food on a stick to lure her. Delicious treats were too hard to resist, and Richardson was able to use her rescue equipment to grab the animal and pull her out.

She commented:

Despite her ordeal, she wasn't injured - and she was quite curious. It soon became apparent she was just a baby.

Reunited with her brother

Richardson knew that her colleague had been in the same area the day before to collect another lost otter pup who was spotted running inside a local equipment rental office.

A kind-hearted staff managed to confine him in a box before an animal rescue officer collected him.

Two pups, thought to be around three to four months old, have since been reunited. They are now in the safe care of South Essex Wildlife Hospital where they'll remain for a few months before returning to the wild.

Staying in good hands

The charity believes that, unfortunately, something must have happened to their mother, as these two cuties are way too young to be out of their den.

Otter cubs can stay in care for up to 12 months. They're released at an age and size when they would naturally move off to find their own territory and way in life.

Sue Schwar, manager of the animal hospital where the pups are staying, said:

It was just wonderful to reunite this pair together and really heart-warming. They're very skinny and do have parasites - but we're really pleased that they're eating well. They're on a diet of trout and we expect they'll get through an awful lot while they're here!

Head to RSPCA's website to learn more about the charity and support their vital animal welfare and rescue work.

Sources used:

- The RSPCA: 'Orphan otter pup rescued from Tesco delivery van'

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