They typically … – but our river systems still require extensive habitat management to restore them to a healthy level that can sustain fish stocks and wildlife. Their diet consists of roughly 80% fish, but they will prey upon birds, mammals and frogs if fish are in short supply. Where do sea otters live in the world? It’s important to know your target species’ habitat, behaviour and feeding patterns before setting out. This eventually led to improved water quality and fish population. So, to increase your chance of seeing them, take a walk along the River Tees. 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. Prior to the 1950s, these fish-devouring mammals were abundant in England. This isn’t surprising at all given the city centre’s proximity to Winnall Moors, estimated to be a 10-minute walk. Hence, protecting them is essential to ensure that they continue to thrive in the UK. Required fields are marked *. They even love to live in swamp and marsh areas. However, between the 1950s and 1970s, their numbers significantly dropped, prompting conservationists to sound the alarm bells for one of UK’s beloved animals. Otters have small, rounded ears, and long sensitive whiskers to help them feel the vibrations of their prey. Otters tend to use the same area time after time for depositing waste and this area is referred to as a latrine. They communicate via whistles, twittering noises and spitting sounds, which can be heard at night when it is quiet and still. Below is a selection of photographs of spraints, tracks and other otter signs. Only enter the water if it’s safe to do so Avoid rivers in full flood or fast-flowing sections If you really want to see otters at Gilfach farm, schedule your visit between October to December. During your walk, you may spot other animals such as seals, herons, swans and tufted duck. These elusive animals are also highly sensitive.  Stay quiet when observing them and never disturb them and their habitat. All otters have webbed feet to help propel them through the water, and most species have sharp claws. Where Do They Live Otters can be found in many different parts of the world depending on the types of otters spotted. When out looking for otters, please follow to this safety advice: Try to work in pairs The otter (Lutra lutra) was lost from most of England and Wales between the 1950s and the 1970s because of pesticide pollution of waterways. River otters generally live alone or in small social groups. 1: Do your research. Cubs will stay with and remain dependent upon their parents for over a year. Spraints: In other words, otter droppings. Some claim seeing these marine mammals along the farm’s natural trail. River otters are smaller than their cousins, the sea otters. Life Span: Otters can live to be up to ten years old, though few survive more than five years. Conservation. Otter sightings have been reported in various parts of the country. But do you want to go out and see them? If you keep a pet otter, be very careful when you have visitors. Otters can live in most places where there is a rocky shoreline and nearby freshwater, but these tips collated by Joe Gibb – with the help of otter aficionado Roger Cottis – will help give you the greatest chance of spotting an otter in the wild. It is important to note that spotting otters is not easy. Do not drink the water Otters cannot be kept as pets because they require specific conditions for longevity. Their gestation period is 9 weeks and they can breed at any time of the year, although this usually occurs in spring. On boulders or rocks either in or near a river 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. There are reports of otter sightings at this traditional hill farm. There is a high chance of one of them getting bitten. A recent report by Cardiff University (2013) noted that pesticides and pollutants may also be affecting the otter’s reproductive system. At the visitor centre, there is an interactive screen where you can watch footage of otters during their visits to the Mill. 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. Otters are carnivorous animals and fish make up 80% of their diet. In 1978, hunting of otters in the UK was banned. They do need dry land, though. If opportunity presents itself, an otter will eat a … The river otter can swim on the surface or underwater. Otters are adorable animals and they can live both in the land and in the river. North American river otters, also called Canadian otters, have long, muscular, streamlined bodies with short legs and fully webbed feet bearing non-retractable claws. You need to hike if you wish to get a glimpse of these shy creatures. By the 1970s, otters were restricted mainly to Scotland, especially the … Eurasian otters will generally live anywhere that has a source of unpolluted fresh water with a sufficient food supply. Prior to the 1950s, these fish-devouring mammals were abundant in England. Some of them are listed below: This ancient woodland on the River Lune is consider an otter hotspot. 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