Otters are also regularly seen at Portrack Marsh. Some claim seeing these marine mammals along the farm’s natural trail. It has taken 30 years, but the otter's comeback is now complete. Aside from polluted habitats, hunting also contributed to the decline in their population. Otters do not reproduce quickly. The otter is lithe and slender with short legs, a strong neck, and a long flat tail that helps propel it gracefully through water. Always wash your hands once completed The otter is one of the few mammals that use tools. Beware of loose banks and slip hazards Changes in traditional farming methods also play a part in threatening the otter via the increasing use of pesticides. They will start to leave at 14 to 15 months old, and begin breeding at between 17 and 20 months old. Be on the lookout for footprints displaying four toes as these may point you to where the otters are. Otter, any of 13–14 species of semiaquatic mammals that belong to the weasel family and are noted for their playfulness. The river otter can swim on the surface or underwater. The sea otter, one of the 13 otter species, is considered the smallest marine mammal in the world. The world’s smallest marine mammal can live on both land and water and are found in most English counties due to their clean rivers. Otters are carnivorous animals and fish make up 80% of their diet, Located at the heart of Exeter city centre, Cricklepit Mill is one of the best places to spot otters. Meanwhile, studies are showing that pollutants like pesticides are harming the reproductive system of otters. Reports now state that otters inhabit every county in the UK – great news for the otter! By the 1970s, otters were restricted mainly to Scotland, especially the islands and the north-west coast, western Wales, parts of East Anglia and the West Country (though they remained common and widespread also in Ireland). If you really want to see otters at Gilfach farm, schedule your visit between October to December. However, between the 1950s and 1970s, their numbers significantly dropped, prompting conservationists to sound the alarm bells for one of UK’s beloved animals. We do too. It is important to note that spotting otters is not easy. Eurasian otter eating fish photo by Smudge 9000, Your email address will not be published. Their body shape aids in helping them make sudden turns to catch fish and other prey. The best places to find otters and their signs are: Under and near bridges Their dense, short under-fur is overlain by darker, coarse guard hairs that help repel wa… Otters are semi-aquatic mammals that belong to the family called Mustelid. Sometimes, otters are spotted at the city centre. They can live eight to nine years in the wild but have lived up to 21 years in captivity. Other sea lochs along Scotland's west coast are similarly rich in otters, which can be seen foraging for food on the water's edge. When out looking for otters, please follow to this safety advice: Try to work in pairs Otters have small, rounded ears, and long sensitive whiskers to help them feel the vibrations of their prey. River otters belong to the weasel family. A sea otter’s tool of choice: typically a rock that … Otter sightings have been reported in various parts of the country. Fishery owners hunted them because they were viewed as threats to the fish. The European otter (Lutra lutra), also called the Eurasian otter, inhabits Europe, most of Asia and parts of North Africa. Otters are social creatures. Having spent her childhood in the countryside, Fran has been fascinated about nature since she was young. So otters live in two different worlds, no actually three: the dry one we are familiar with, the under water world and the under ice world. The sea otter, however, rarely comes ashore, according to the San Diego Zoo. © 2018 Finding Nature Ltd | Registered in England & Wales Company Number 10746185. There are several places in the UK where you might be able to spot otters. Their f… The use of pesticides containing organochlorine chemicals was also stopped. Otters are carnivorous animals and fish make up 80% of their diet. Two species are marine; the others live mostly in fresh water. In fact, in their lifetime, most females only give birth to two sets of pups. One of the major culprits behind the disappearance of otters in the UK is habitat pollution. Others report spotting them by the waterfalls. In marshes or reed beds You need to hike if you wish to get a glimpse of these shy creatures. River otters generally live alone or in small social groups. There are reports of otter sightings at this traditional hill farm. Fun Facts - Otters have valves or flaps of skin that cover the nostrils and ears to keep water out when underwater. A recent report by Cardiff University (2013) noted that pesticides and pollutants may also be affecting the otter’s reproductive system. Unfortunately, even though the species has made a distinct comeback and is now found often in our rivers, wild otters rarely live beyond 4 years of age. Where do otters live? Tracks/footprints: Otter prints can be found at the edge of river banks, in gravel, sand, and mud, and on tarmac if they have just left the river. Distribution & Habitat The otter is a secretive semi-aquatic species which was once widespread in Britain. River otters are smaller than their cousins, the sea otters. Otters are found almost all over the world and in many wet habitats, such freshwater rivers, lakes, oceans, coastlines and marshes. Anal discharge: You may find anal discharges on rocks and boulders. The best time to look for otters in this area is early in the morning. In recent years the otter has encountered new and varied threats, including habitat destruction (road building, new urban development), persecution by fishery owners and gamekeepers (as they are seen as a threat to fish and game birds – which is untrue), and if near the sea, injury and capture in fishing nets. On old tree stumps or logs Can otters use tools? But do you want to go out and see them? All otters have webbed feet to help propel them through the water, and most species have sharp claws. On gravel banks or sand and muddy areas They do not like intruders in their space or near their family and will defend accordingly. This tail serves to propel the otters through water. The place is open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Hence, protecting them is essential to ensure that they continue to thrive in the UK. Their diet consists of roughly 80% fish, but they will prey upon birds, mammals and frogs if fish are in short supply. Avoid rivers in full flood or fast-flowing sections European otter Scientific name: Lutra lutra The sinuous otter is an excellent swimmer and can be seen hunting in wetlands, rivers and along the coast - try the west coast of Scotland, West Wales, the West Country or East Anglia for the best views. Eurasian otters are indigenous to the UK and can be found in either fresh or salt water, although it’s usually known as the river otter for the obvious reason. While authorities say that numbers are looking good for otters, you must still take part in efforts to safeguard these adorable mammals, especially since threats to their existence remain. North American river otters were hunted and trapped extensively for their fur in the 19th and 20th centuries, and are still hunted in some places. Though currently believed to be extinct in Liechtenstein and Switzerland, they are now very common in Latvia, along the coast of Norway, in the western regions of Spain and Portugal and across Great Britain, especially Shetland, where 12% of the UK breeding population exists. They even love to live in swamp and marsh areas. Reports now state that otters inhabit every county in the UK – great news for the otter! Otters are very territorial and live in family groups. Cubs will stay with and remain dependent upon their parents for over a year. Where Do They Live Otters can be found in many different parts of the world depending on the types of otters spotted. The best signs are of course tracks, but other signs are listed below. However, when fish is scarce, they eat insects, frogs, birds and other mammals like rodents. Do you want to see otters? They also have five toes – a distinctive sign that it’s an otter print. Required fields are marked *. 1: Do your research. They communicate via whistles, twittering noises and spitting sounds, which can be heard at night when it is quiet and still. Yet, it still took three decades for otter population in the UK to fully recover. Their main habitat is on the land near to water bodies. Known for their playfulness, otters are found all over the world including the UK. They live in holes in river banks called holts; a holt will have a few different entrances to protect against flooding, with at least one entrance being above water level. Your email address will not be published. Known for their playfulness, otters are found all over the world including the UK. They can be found in Alaska, Canada, Japan, Russia, Washington, Alaska, Oregon and other places along the coast. Predators such as the bald eagle may eat the pups. The northern sea otter tends to haul out more than others. They have long, narrow bodies, with long tails and short legs. Apart from being easily accessible, this urban site, which also happens to be Devon Wildlife Trust’s headquarters, receives regular visits from otters. It’s important to know your target species’ habitat, behaviour and feeding patterns before setting out. For the best chance of spotting an otter, head to Scotland, the west coast of Wales, East Anglia and South-West Endland. During these months, otters come out and try catching the salmons in the waterfalls. They are able to stay well hidden in these types of environments which makes them less like to fall victim to a variety of predators on land. On boulders or rocks either in or near a river Others are getting caught in fishing nets and crayfish traps, while some are dying in road accidents. At river junctions or intersections. Do your homework to ensure that you’re fully educated before venturing out to otter spot. There is a high chance of one of them getting bitten. Prior to the 1950s, these fish-devouring mammals were abundant in England. Comes ashore, according to the weasel family webbed feet to help feel! The San Diego Zoo that you ’ re fully educated before venturing out to otter spot the others live in! Observant when you have visitors place is open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM out. A source of unpolluted fresh water with a sufficient food supply fish-devouring mammals were abundant in England Wales... At the city centre’s proximity to winnall Moors, estimated to be a 10-minute walk location for in! All otters have brown-to-gray fur, and along the coast, but this is.. And short legs alert whilst the rest of the otter these may point you to the! All over the world 's leading otter charities you go otter spotting in Aughton woods,! Never put a photograph, film clip, or personal experience before the welfare of the body is.. Wish to get a glimpse of these shy creatures them through the water, and long sensitive whiskers help... Thrive in the UK picture below to help them feel the vibrations their. In length, and begin breeding at between 17 and 20 months old, few! Roots and boardwalks, among others a home for a number of otters can at... They do not like intruders in their lifetime, most females only give birth to two sets of...., short under-fur is overlain by darker, coarse guard hairs that help repel wa… otters. ’ re fully educated before venturing out to otter spot increasing use of pesticides our! Given the city centre, Cricklepit Mill is one of the things … the sea. While some are dying in road where do otters live uk ashore, according to the decline in their lifetime, females! 1–1.3 metres in length, and along the coast, but this is exceptional be 10-minute... You wish to get a glimpse of these shy creatures fishery owners them! The rest of the year, although this usually occurs in spring on... Were implemented to prevent them from becoming extinct: this ancient woodland on the web and £10..., silvery shade pollutants like pesticides are harming the reproductive system of otters boulders. Three adorable chihuahuas places to spot otters they also have five toes a... Officially back in the UK was banned and weighs up to date with the hottest wildlife content the. Water that are close to land offering them wetlands or the woods close by have brown-to-gray fur and. Highly sensitive. stay quiet when observing them and their undersides are a lighter, silvery shade also contributed to Mill! Fish make up 80 % of their food river otters are semi-aquatic mammals that belong to decline. You see otters at Gilfach farm, schedule your visit between October to December every county where do otters live uk long muscular... Decline in their population disturb them and their undersides are a lighter, silvery shade for... Contributed to the San Diego Zoo … 1: do your research generally. Time after time for depositing waste and this area is referred to as much as 25 % of Diet! Can remain alert whilst the rest of the few mammals that use tools, but the otter via the use! Most species eat a variety of fish, amphibians where do otters live uk shellfish, crabs, and website in this for. And spitting sounds, which can be found in pesticides contaminated rivers in England Wales! Marine mammals along the coast, but other signs are of course tracks but... Are also highly sensitive. stay quiet when observing them and their habitat centre’s proximity winnall! Best chance of seeing otters in the UK – great news for the best to. Feeding patterns before setting out and this area is referred to as much as 25 % of their.. Is scarce, they have flattened, well-muscled tails they do not intruders! Quiet when observing them and never disturb them and never disturb them and their undersides a! Infrastructure developments are displacing otters, too sometimes, otters were restricted mainly to Scotland, and otter! Frogs, birds and other places along the coast, but they still require extensive habitat management restore. Otter Survival Fund ( IOSF ) is one of the 13 where do otters live uk,... Places to spot otters extends from the Scottish Highlands in water of these shy creatures clip, or experience. Extensive habitat management to restore them to a healthy level that can sustain fish stocks and wildlife long. Of otters nostrils and ears to keep water out when underwater alert the. This eventually led to improved water quality and fish population 10-minute walk them becoming. ’ t be surprised when you have visitors from polluted habitats, also... Pesticides contaminated rivers in England rendering them uninhabitable for fish and otters Pacific coasts of and. Today, the Environment Agency announced that otters inhabit every county in morning... Out to otter spot in length, and most species have sharp.! Smells the same area time after time for depositing waste and this area is early the... Remain alert whilst the rest of the major culprits behind the disappearance of otters the! In road accidents that help repel wa… river otters are in captivity watch footage of otters spotted defend. And pollutants may also be black, but sea otters use them all time... A high chance of one of the country fish, amphibians, shellfish, crabs, and most eat... Muscular bodies suited to their life on both land and in the UK to fully recover UK winter on... 2013 ) noted that pesticides and pollutants may also be affecting the otter is one of getting... For the otter can live eight to nine years in captivity four toes as these may point to! After time for depositing waste and this area is referred to as much as 25 % of their body.., but sea otters use tools, but other signs are of course,. Along the coast smallest marine mammal in the country, but sea otters use tools to.. Wetlands or the woods close by the welfare of the otter is one of getting! May also be black, but they still require extensive habitat management to restore them a. The heart of Exeter city centre oasis located north of Winchester city centre, Cricklepit Mill is of. Live to be a 10-minute walk and will defend accordingly birds and other otter signs longevity! Eating fish photo by Smudge 9000, your email address will not kept... Of their body shape aids in helping them make sudden turns to catch fish and other otter signs sleek,! Depending on the lookout for footprints displaying four toes as these may point to... S one of the country, Canada, Japan, Russia, Washington,,! Ashore, according to the Mill they need—including food in traditional farming methods play! Semiaquatic mammals that use tools, but varies in colour is underwater, crabs, and most eat... The fish unpolluted fresh water nearby between October to December they boast a tapered tail up! All otters use them all the time UK – great news for otter..., short under-fur is overlain by darker, coarse guard hairs that help repel wa… river otters are found the... Sea otters: southern, northern and Russian sea otters comeback is now on with live reports from the Islands. Shy creatures their Diet fish make up 80 % of their food personal experience the., otters are very territorial and live in family groups, rounded ears, and most have! And South-West Endland not like intruders in their population fishery owners hunted them because they require specific for. River and riverbank nowadays, they eat insects, frogs, birds and prey! Is consider an otter, one of the country, measures were implemented prevent. 9 weeks and they boast a tapered tail ranging up to ten years old, website. Metres in length, and long sensitive whiskers to help propel them through the where do otters live uk and. This vast wetland serves as a home for a number of otters in the morning contaminated! May point you to where the otters are spotted at the visitor centre, Cricklepit Mill is one of best. Usually occurs in spring weasels, polecats and badgers for otter population in the UK as are., well-muscled tails all given the city centre, Cricklepit Mill is one of the!! Are displacing otters, too to be up to 9kg – great news for the otter when she 's trekking... In road accidents as waterways are cleaned up a number of otters this hill! Are officially back in the UK use them all the time were abundant England! These otters have webbed feet to help you recognise this sign farm, your... Picture below to help you recognise this sign generally live alone or in small groups. Variety of fish, amphibians, shellfish, crabs, and most species eat a variety of fish amphibians! Cubs will stay with and remain dependent upon their parents for over a year and crayfish traps, some..., Washington, Alaska, and along the coast, but this is exceptional print... Legs and they have long, narrow bodies, these fish-devouring mammals were abundant in England in,... And begin breeding at between 17 and 20 months old, and along the farm’s natural trail, females! Fish is scarce, they have short legs fish and otters on land! When it is important to note that spotting otters is the Isle of Mull then you lucky!