Colchester Zoo announces death of otter pup
Six pups were born there last year
Colchester Zoo has announced the death of one of its youngest animals.
Six Asian short-clawed otters were born on 22 November 2020, but since emerging from their den one has passed away.
The remaining five pups are growing "healthy and strong" according to the zoo.
They have all had their first health checks and keepers discovered four of the animals are female and one is male.
Colchester Zoo is now asking the public to help choose names for the pups out of the shortlist decided by the Animal Care Team.
The suggestions begin with R or S in honour of mum Summer and dad Ravi.
Options for the male pup are Ralph and River, while the female choices are Spring, Sally, Sage, Sprout, Rosie and Robin.
The zoo is asking for a minimum donation of £1 to cast a vote via its website, which will go to the zoo's Emergency Operating Fund.