Let the Little Otter Pup Be

During more than forty years of photographing wildlife along the coast of Northern Norway, I have had countless encounters with otters. Yet only recently did I experience something I had never seen before – a tiny wild otter pup completely alone.

The little pup was incredibly charming: curious, trusting and seemingly vulnerable. It is easy to understand why anyone would feel a strong urge to help. I felt that myself.

From its size and behaviour, I estimated that the pup was around two months old. At this age, it is still completely dependent on its mother. The mother stays with her young during their first year, protecting them and teaching them everything they need to survive in the wild.

But a pup that appears to be abandoned is not necessarily so. The mother may simply be out hunting for food. She may also be hiding nearby, keeping her distance because she has detected people. If we approach too closely, we may actually prevent her from returning to her pup.

That is why the most important thing we can often do is simply to leave quietly and give them space.

Do not take the pup home. Do not feed it. Do not move it – unless it is clearly injured or seriously ill, or there is definite evidence that its mother has died. Human intervention should only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

Through my otter project, I have learned how secretive and wary these animals are. Seeing an otter in daylight is rare. In recent years, modern camera technology has given me a unique insight into their hidden lives – moments that were previously almost impossible to witness without disturbing the animals.

The little otter pup belongs with its mother – not with us.

Sometimes the greatest help we can give is simply to keep our distance. By doing so, we give the mother the opportunity to return, and the pup the safety and guidance that only she can provide.