Otter surveys
Otters (Lutra lutra) are a European Protected Species that live near to and use rivers, canals, lakes, marshes, ponds and the coast. Otters can be present in watercourses in rural and urban environments. When suitable habitat is present on or near to a site that is likely to be impacted by the works, surveys can be required.
ADAS provides otter surveys and advises on any otter licences or mitigation to enable your project or development to proceed.
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Surveying otters
Otter surveys start with a habitat suitability assessment to help determine if otters are likely to be present. Ecologists will then focus on areas which we deem to be most suitable for otters with a search around for otters themselves or signs of their presence, such as droppings, footprints and resting places. Otter droppings, also called scat, are normally found on rocks, logs or other obvious structures along the watercourse. They will often contain fish bones and shells.
Unlike many other protected native species, it is possible to survey for otters at any time of the year.
If otters are present
There are mitigation options available if otters are present and impacted by the works. The creation of artificial holts and the production of specific habitat management plans may be required.
You will need to obtain a European Protected Species Licence from the applicable body, e.g., Natural England.
ADAS ecologists can help