Two otters, one lactating, were found dead on a busy Essex road within two weeks, raising concerns over road fatalities and efforts to find any orphaned cubs.

Two female otters, including one lactating and likely with cubs nearby, were found dead on Cressing Road in Essex within two weeks. The first was discovered January 18, the second February 8, prompting concern over road-related fatalities. Wildlife advocates believe the animals were crossing the busy road to reach a nearby reservoir. The first otter was taken by Essex Wildlife Trust for potential research on water quality and otter health. European otters, once near extinction in Britain due to pesticides, are now protected and listed as near threatened globally. Authorities urge drivers to slow down to prevent further accidents, while efforts continue to locate any orphaned cubs, which face a critical survival window after losing their mother.