A rare set of giant otter triplets has been born at Chester Zoo, in a significant boost for the conservation of one of the world's most endangered species.

With fewer than 5,000 thought to survive in the wild, the triplets are the first of their kind to be born at the zoo in several years.

Arriving to first-time parents Bonita and Manu, the pups have remained tucked away in their cosy holt with mum feeding them regularly until they more than tripled in size. 

Following their first health check-up with the zoo's veterinary team, conservationists have revealed the sex of the pups to be two males and a female - with names yet to be chosen.  

"We're delighted to confirm that all three are healthy and thriving, and that we have two males and one female pup," said Rachael Boatwright, assistant team manager of carnivores at the zoo.

"The arrival of these three giant otter pups is a hugely special moment and marks the first time the species has been born here in seven years.  

"At eight weeks old, the pups will now start to venture outside alongside parents Bonita and Manu, who will start introducing them to the water and all of the essential skills they'll need as they grow."

Giant otters are the world's largest species of otter. In Spanish, they're often referred to as obo de río - the "river wolf" - due to their powerful build, sharp teeth and highly social nature.

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As one of the apex predators in the waterways where they live, they play a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of freshwater ecosystems. 

But the species faces an uncertain future as experts estimate that fewer than 5,000 giant otters remain across South America, having already disappeared entirely from parts of their former range.

Their decline has largely been driven by deforestation, water pollution and illegal hunting. The species is listed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), meaning it faces a very high risk of extinction without urgent conservation action. 

Kirsten Pullen, chief conservation officer at the zoo, said: "Every birth represents genuine hope for this highly endangered species, and these three giant otter pups are an important reminder of what conservation efforts around the world can achieve.

"By maintaining healthy, genetically diverse populations in conservation zoos like ours, while also supporting efforts to protect and restore habitats in the wild, we're hopeful that giant otters can thrive long into the future."

Parents Manu and Bonita arrived at Chester from two European zoos as part of the endangered species breeding programme.

The pair were carefully matched together based on their genetics to help play a role in securing a future for the species.