This past April, staff members at Little Creek Navy Base in Norfolk, Virginia, noticed an unusual pair of visitors huddled outside one of the administration buildings.
Cindy Lakin
The furry guests were a pair of baby otter siblings, only about 5 to 6 weeks old. At first, staff members left the otters alone, hopeful that their mother might return for them. But when she didn’t come after 24 hours, staff members contacted Evelyn’s Wildlife Refuge for help.
Rescuers immediately knew the babies were in danger.
Cindy Lakin
“Otters at that age would never be out of their den,” wildlife rehabber Cindy Lakin told The Dodo. “If they are out, something has happened, and they need rescue.”
The rescue team safely grabbed the otter pups, whom they named Cedar and Willow, and moved them into Lakin’s care. The pair joined a group of other orphaned otter pups — Poppy, Oakley, Cherry and Aspen.
Cindy Lakin
When the otters arrived, they were severely dehydrated and underweight. Lakin administered fluids and antibiotics to help them recover. Eventually, the otters began growing and eating well. Just recently, the otters advanced into the next stage of their lives, which involves eating fish and learning how to swim.
Cindy Lakin
When they’re not busy mastering important otter skills, Cedar and Willow like to play with each other and their friends.
“For otters, everything is fun and games,” Lakin said. “They love their toys.”
Rescuers plan to release all six otters this spring. Back where they belong, this new family can build a life of their own in the forests and streams they love best.
To help other animals like these otters, you can make a donation to Evelyn’s Wildlife Refuge. 
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