Orana Wildlife Park euthanises sick otter

Christchurch's Orana Wildlife Park has euthanised one of its otters due to a mass on his neck.

In a social media post, the wildlife park said Siak was one of its "much loved otters".

Earlier in the week, Siak was undergoing a procedure as the mass on his neck was affecting his breathing and eating.

"Sadly, once our veterinary team were able to assess the full extent of the mass, it became clear that it was far more advanced than we had hoped," the post said.

"The difficult but kindest decision was made to humanely euthanise Siak, ensuring he did not suffer."

The park said Siak would be remembered by his carers as being "incredibly vocal", having a "cheeky personality", an "unforgettable side eye" and "the most irresistible puppy dog eyes".

"Whether he had a mouth full of food or not, he always seemed to have something to say. Every morning he would greet his keepers with his signature 'gangster lean' against the gate, eagerly waiting for breakfast.

"Although he sat at the bottom of the pecking order, he more than made up for it."

The post went on to say: "He was the sweetest little boy and brought so much joy to everyone who had the privilege of caring for him. He will be deeply missed by his keepers and by all who knew him."

Siak's carers took comfort in knowing that the decision to put Siak down was done with his best interests and welfare at heart.

"Our team will continue to closely monitor the rest of Siak's family over the coming weeks.

"Otters are highly social animals, and we will ensure they receive the care and support they need as they adjust to this loss."