Otters

OtterPart of a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Cambridge Ecology will assess the suitability of your site to support Otters. Subsequent detailed surveys may then be required to the inform appropriate levels of mitigation or compensation for a development licence applications. These Otter surveys include specialised methods such as:

  • Field Sign Searches
  • Remote-Sensing surveys

Cambridge Ecology has experienced ecologists able to undertake Otter surveys.

See survey timetable for the optimal survey period.

Legislation and protection

Otters are fully protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)  and is a Protected Species. It is an offence to:

  • deliberately kill, capture, injure, or take from the wild an Otter
  • intentionally or recklessly obstruct access to any structure/place used for shelter or protection, or
  • damage/destroy or obstruct a breeding site or resting places
  • disturb Otters whilst they are occupying such a structure or place

Sentences include six months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5000 (per animal).

The Otter is a UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) priority species and is a Section 41 ‘species of priority importance’ under the terms of the NERC Act 2006.

For more information on how we can help you, please get in touch or call 01954 231239.