Otters who loved to 'curl up' die together after 15 years at Jersey Zoo

A "playful pair" of otters, who'd been with each other for more than 15 years, have died together after a period of poor health.

Bintang, 17, and 16-year-old Bulan the Asian small-clawed otters could often be found "curled up together" or "taking a splash", according to their keepers at Jersey Zoo.

They'd been there since 2006 and 2007 respectively, with Bintang having been born at Newquay Zoo, and Bulan being moved over from Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park.

The zoo says they'll be missed by staff, volunteers and visitors.

Bulan and Bintang were beloved by many visitors to the zoo but have now sadly died (credit: Jersey Zoo)

Dom Wormell, Curator of Mammals at Jersey Zoo, said: "Over recent months we have been closely monitoring both otters due to kidney problems.

"During a recent veterinary check, it became apparent that their health was deteriorating rapidly, and the prognosis was poor.

"The welfare of our animals is always our priority, so we took the difficult decision to put them both to sleep."

Islanders have been reacting to the news of the playful pair, with one saying: "That's so sad, we spent hours watching their endearing antics!"

And another islander said: "This is sad news and must be particularly difficult for the keepers who have got to know them well over the years.

"We saw them out enjoying the very warm summer sun last year."

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