The Otter was found near Almere, but because the refuge is the nearest shelter with permits for the care of these kinds of mammals, the young Otter ended up in Amsterdam. “The animal was in very bad shape,” says Zant. “It had wounds that already contained flying eggs, it was under the sign and was very weakened. But after a few days with us he became lively and playful again.”
After ten days, the young Otter was strong enough to be transferred to De Fûgelhelling reception center in Ureterp, where more young otters have already stayed. “These kinds of young mammals recover much faster and grow better among peers of about the same age,” explains Zant. “While playing and fooling, they develop muscles and senses. That increases the chance that the Otter will soon be able to return to nature.”