A Brief Encounter on OtterCam

Just one video this week but it shows something I haven't seen before.  Watch the video first and I'll explain afterwards.

The dog otter had hauled out onto the bank for a bit of rolling and scratching.  At first he thought he heard something but then wasn't so sure and resumed his grooming.  Then he was sure he heard something and three other otters appeared, very probably his mate and offspring.  It is fascinating to see how submissive he was, and how the cubs were curious, but not overly so. The dog watched them go and then followed them up the bank before returning alone four minutes later.

I presume they have bumped into each other before and they will certainly be aware of each other through scent-marking.  The audio isn't very good on this camera but the encounter was almost silent - just a few soft squeaks as the family approached.  It confirms that the cubs aren't yet mature enough to leave and the female is not yet interested in mating.  Although the cubs are big they are only about 9-10 months old so I expect them to be around for a few weeks yet.