A playful otter disrupts dinner time, leaving the Mouat family amused and surprised.

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Unexpected visitor during dinner
In a delightful turn of events, the Mouat family from South Nesting, Shetland, experienced an unexpected dinner guest that turned their evening into a memorable adventure. While preparing monkfish tails for supper, the family was startled by a cheeky otter that had been lurking outside their home.
What began as a simple family meal quickly transformed into a chaotic scene as the otter darted inside, eager for a snack.
Otter’s antics in the kitchen
The otter’s entrance was nothing short of entertaining. As it made its way into the kitchen, it began to explore its surroundings, knocking over lamps and rummaging through cupboards.
The Mouat family, consisting of Donna, her husband Ryan, and their two young children, Geordie and Vaila, were both amused and astonished by the creature’s boldness. Donna captured the entire incident on video, which she later shared on social media, quickly gaining traction and turning the family into local celebrities.
Minimal damage and lasting memories
Despite the otter’s playful destruction, Ryan was relieved to report that nothing was broken during the escapade. “Surprisingly, there was nothing actually broken,” he stated in an interview with The Press and Journal. “We had a bowl of monkfish tails lying around, and I’m glad it didn’t go for them. We managed to salvage them for our tea.” The family was left with a story to tell and a video that would entertain friends and neighbors alike.
Local wildlife and community response
Ryan speculated that the otter had been feeding on fish near their home prior to its daring entrance. With a stream running through their garden and the sea just a short distance away, it’s not uncommon for otters to venture close to human habitation in search of food. “I think it has probably smelt the fish and decided to nip into the house in search for more,” he explained. The community has since rallied around the video, with many reaching out to the family to express their delight and share in the laughter.
Conclusion: A charming encounter
This charming encounter with a cheeky otter not only provided the Mouat family with an unforgettable dinner experience but also highlighted the playful nature of local wildlife in Shetland. As the video continues to circulate, the family enjoys their newfound fame, with Donna receiving most of the attention for her viral post. The incident serves as a reminder of the delightful surprises that nature can bring into our lives, often when we least expect them.