Otter Surveys
Otter
Otters Lutra lutra are a European Protected Species (EPS), protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).
As a result, it is an offence to:
- deliberately capture, injure, or kill an otter
- deliberately disturb otters where this is likely to: impair their ability to survive, breed, rear young, or hibernate significantly affect the local distribution or abundance of the species
- damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place (e.g. holts, couches), whether or not otters are present at the time
- obstruct access to a place of shelter or protection
- possess, control, transport, sell, or exchange an otter (alive or dead), or any part of one
Otters can be affected by development activities, including:
- Works affecting waterbodies, such as rivers, streams, lakes, wetlands, and drainage channels
- Works affecting bankside vegetation , including culverts and fencing
- Working increasing disturbance via increased lighting, or noise along watercourses
The optimal timing for surveys can be found in our ecology calendar.
If your Preliminary Ecological Appraisal identifies potential constraints relating to otters, further surveys may be required.
Adonis Blue can support you with all necessary surveys and licensing.
Otter Surveys
Here are the main types of otter surveys used in development contexts:
Habitat Suitability and Field Sign Survey
- Purpose: To determine the suitability of the site for otters and identify evidence of presence
- Method: A walkover survey of watercourses and surrounding habitat to record and map: Spraints (droppings), Footprints and tracks, Feeding remains, Slides and couches and Holts and other resting places
- Timings: Can be undertaken year-round, with optimal conditions in spring and autumn when vegetation is lower and field signs are easier to detect
- Number of surveys: Typically one visit, sometimes undertaken as part of the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) or more commonly as a targeted follow-up survey
Holt / Shelter Monitoring
- Purpose: To confirm whether a holt or resting place is active, identify levels of use, and inform mitigation and licensing requirements
- Method: Camera traps are installed at or near holts or resting places. Activity is recorded over time to confirm presence and usage
- Timings: Can be undertaken year-round, depending on site conditions and project requirements
- Number of surveys: Cameras are typically deployed for 3–4 weeks continuously with Periodic checks undertaken to ensure functionality and review data
Protected Species Licensing
Where development is likely to result in an offence (as outlined above), a European Protected Species Mitigation (EPSM) licence will be required from the relevant statutory nature conservation body.
The licence application must demonstrate that: The development is necessary for imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI), there are no satisfactory alternatives and the favourable conservation status of the species will be maintained.
Our experienced ecologists can guide you through the entire process from survey and impact assessment to licence application and implementation ensuring your project remains compliant and progresses efficiently.