A SET of rare, silver otters have been born at a zoo.

The triplets were born in late July at Drusillas Wildlife Park near Alfriston to mum Halloumi-Bee and dad Cheddar.

Zookeepers say they were “surprised” to see that each the pup had silvery, frosted fur, which is believed to have been inherited from their dad.

The Argus: Baby otters at DrusillasBaby otters at Drusillas

Jacinta Dawe, who works closely with the otters, said the Asian short-clawed otters usually have a brown upper body and a pale chest and face.

She said: “We were all so surprised to see the colour of the pup’s fur, as the last litter were all born with the standard colourings and markings.

“We’re always excited about babies here at the zoo, but when we know they are really unique and have rare traits like this, even the keepers will sneak moments to try and take photos.”

The pup’s parents already have four children – Brie, Feta, Edam and Leicester - but the new arrivals are the only ones to have inherited their dad’s sliver fur.

Jacinta said: “Cheddar is a really important member of the species for us, not only for his gorgeous silver gene, he also still carries wild genes from his ancestors.

“He and Halloumi-Bee are doing a great job of being parents again, but with seven children it’s not surprising that sometimes we catch them sneaking off to try and get a moment alone.”

The newborns are said to be “doing really well” and can now even be spotted by visitors.

Jacinta said: “We recently health checked and sexed the pups and are thrilled to report that we have two beautiful girls and one lovely boy, and all are in fabulous health and making great progress.

“They are now able to take a few steps away from their parents and will soon start to open their eyes fully.”

The new additions take Drusillas count for otter babies to seven.

A spokeswoman said the birth is “good news” for the species who are under threat from habitat loss and exploitation in the pet trade.

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