Otter surveys
(All)
The otter population in the UK is currently recovering after crashing in the middle of the last century, so otters may occur on sites close to water. A typical otter survey involves not only the watercourse immediately affected by development but also an additional 2km upstream and downstream.
The features of the habitat are recorded and the area is searched for signs of otters. Habitat features recorded may include the flow velocity, presence of pollution, amount of cover and level of disturbance.
Signs of otters such as spraints, holts, couches, footprints and feeding remains are searched for throughout the area, looking particularly in areas that otters are likely to use, such as under bridges. Otter surveys can be undertaken throughout the year.
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