London Wetland Centre’s ‘loved up’ otters enjoy Valentine’s dinner date

A pair of loved-up Asian small-clawed otters have been surprised with a special dinner date as part of London Wetland Centre’s Valentine’s Day celebrations.

The animals, Tod (seven) and Honey (11), were given a starter of frozen love heart filled with trout blood, trout, and prawns, followed by a main of tilapia hidden inside a willow heart.

The more inquisitive of the two, Tod, was the first to spot the gifts and rushed to investigate.

Tod and Honey were introduced at the London Wetland Centre on Boxing Day 2018, and they have been enjoying their retirement years together ever since.

Alexia Hollinshead, General Manager at London Wetland Centre, said: “Asian short-clawed otters are classified as vulnerable and there are breeding programs to help protect them.

“However, due to her age, Tod and Honey are in retirement and happily living out their days loved up together at London Wetland Centre, where they’ve become firm favorites amongst visitors.

“They can often be spotted kissing, cuddling, and, in the colder months, enjoying a hot tub together! We absolutely had to help the pair celebrate their love and keep the romance alive this Valentine’s Day.”

Those wishing to meet Tod and Honey can find them at the London Wetland Centre, which is open every day from 9.30 am to 5 pm. Daily otter talks take place at 11 am and 2 pm.