WHOLE OTTER LOVE AT SEALIFE PARK

There's a case of love at first sight for one of the residents of Weymouth's SeaLife Park. Jonny, the Short-clawed Otter has been given a new room mate. She's female and he's apparently smitten.

 "The

attraction was immediate, and has grown ever since Lilly's arrival in April." said Supervisor of

Displays Matt Fuller. "After a brief acclimatisation, Lilly seemed fascinated by her new home whilst

Jonny appeared to begin honing his courting skills."

"Whenever

there is a new arrival there will always be a slight concern how well they will

acclimatise and we monitor the animals very closely, but we need

not have worried in this case. Jonny's romantic ambitions appear to have

made Lilly feel very welcome!"

Jonny's ten years older than Lilly and showers her with attention and gifts, earning himself a reputation as

something of a sugar daddy. 

"Having

lived the single life for the past four years, Jonny is used to ruling his

domain. However, since Lilly arrived Jonny has allowed himself to be pushed

around and chirps lovingly at her", says Matt.

"He

has also been seen sharing his food during public feeds, which is unheard of in

the otter world due to the amount they like to consume."

The centre says it

could be a while before Lilly will be ready to mate as Short-clawed Otters

usually reach maturity at around two years old.  So, if the

romance blossoms, Weymouth

Sea Life

Park's hoping to enjoy

the pitter patter of baby otter feet.