©Danny Green/2020VISION
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.
Species information
Category
Statistics
Length: 60-80cmTail: 32-56cm
Weight: 6-8kg
Average lifespan: 5-10 years
Conservation status
Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework. European Protected Species under Annex IV of the European Habitats Directive. Listed as Near Threatened on the global IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
When to see
January to DecemberAbout
The elusive otter is one of our top predators, feeding mainly on fish (particularly eels and salmonids), waterbirds, amphibians and crustaceans. Otters have their cubs in underground burrows, known as 'holts'. Excellent and lithe swimmers, the young are in the water by 10 weeks of age. Otters are well suited to a life on the water as they have webbed feet, dense fur to keep them warm, and can close their ears and nose when underwater. They require clean rivers, with an abundant source of food and plenty of vegetation to hide their secluded holts.How to identify
The otter is a large, powerful mammal, with grey-brown fur, a broad snout, and a pale chest and throat. Otters can be distinguished from mink by their much larger size and broader face.In our area
Otter populations are fragmented throughout England but there have been many sightings in the River Severn, Shropshire. To find out more about our otter project and wider rivers work to improve water quality for all river wildlife, visit our Rivers Hub webpage.