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Matchmaking endangered giant otters from Hungary and UK

CGTN

An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they
An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they "instantly bonded." /CFP

An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they "instantly bonded." /CFP

An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they
An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they "instantly bonded." /CFP

An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they "instantly bonded." /CFP

An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they
An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they "instantly bonded." /CFP

An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they "instantly bonded." /CFP

An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they
An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they "instantly bonded." /CFP

An undated photo shows two giant otters at Chester Zoo, UK, where they "instantly bonded." /CFP

A three-year-old male giant otter named Manu has traveled from Hungary's Budapest Zoo, to Chester Zoo in the United Kingdom, in the hope of hitting it off with a female otter there.

To help save the species from extinction, zookeepers from both sides have been carefully planning this matchmaking trip, with Manu being chosen as an ideal genetic match for eight-year-old Tibiri.

This highly endangered species is an apex predator that plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of freshwater habitats in South America. Experts estimate that fewer than 5,000 giant otters remain on the continent.

But the good news is that the otters were seen swimming and playing together when they met for the very first time, with photographers capturing some heartwarming moments.

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