The European otter (Lutra lutra) is native to the UK and has a broad geographical range, however from the 1950s to the 1970s there was a rapid decline in their population and they were effectively lost to many areas of the country.

Since then extensive work has taken place to restore habitats and clean-up waterways and their population once again appears to be stable.

The otter is a European Protected Species under the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 (Habitats Directive). Intentional capture, handling and disturbance, disturbance to their habitat (intentional or reckless) or their holt is illegal without a licence from the governing body, Natural England.

As part of the Biodiversity Project, Richard Smith, Biodiversity Officer, has been surveying for the presence of otter at five of the Trust's sites: Lopwell Dam, Roadford Lake, Lower Tamar Lake, Venford Reservoir and College Lake.

Presence has been established at all sites except for Venford where surveying will continue and presence has also been confirmed at Kennick Reservoir, Porth and Old Mill.

Richard's next step is to develop appropriate habitat enhancement schemes for the sites and to implement these practices over the next year. Surveying, which involves looking for identifying signs such as spraints, footprints and food remains, will continue at these sites plus others and anyone interested in helping should contact Richard on 01822 855700 or rsmith@swlakestrust.org.uk

Otter Factsheet