Due to hunting, habitat destruction, vehicle accidents and pesticides, the number of otters in the UK significantly dwindled to only surviving in small numbers in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Luckily, they can now be spotted across the nation but are still vulnerable to these threats. Here are the types of habitats otters live in, so you can keep an eye out and be aware of otters near you.
All About Otter Habitat & Lifestyle
Where Do Otters Live?
Otters are well-suited to land and water which is why they are commonly found along rivers and lakes. Sometimes, you may find them along the coast or estuaries but there must be a freshwater source nearby as they require this to clean salt from their fur. Without it, they will not be able to keep sufficiently warm.
These mammals have very large territories – 20-30 km of riverbank or 3-4 km of coast – due to a male’s home including several females. They also need a lot of space for their many holts and couches.
A holt is an otter’s nest which is usually a burrow, a hole in the rocks or a natural cavity in the riverbank, tree roots or shrubbery. A couch refers to the dense vegetation that lines the riverbank, usually made up of grasses, ferns, reeds and leaves which otters use to rest.
Holts are mainly used for shelter and breeding and have more than one chamber to accommodate multiple otters. A system of tunnels will connect them together, including one to use as a latrine, and some entrances may be underwater.
Why Do Otters Choose These Habitats?
The main reasons otters choose riverbanks for their homes are their diet, their family and their strong swimming ability.
Depending on what is available, an otter’s diet is usually 80% fish. Thereby, living along the river means they are close to a food source. Although they are unable to hold their breath underwater for long periods of time, their strong swimming ability still means they can dive and catch slow-moving coarse fish. Otters have also been known to favour eels and frogs as well as water birds like coots, moorhens and ducks, if fish is in short supply.
As mentioned above, the riverbank as a habitat gives them plenty of space for couches to rest but to also raise their young. These secluded areas of vegetation are ideal for otters to keep their young safe and secure whilst close to food sources and shelter.
Are Otter Habitats Protected?
Otter habitats are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010. It is an offence to damage or destroy their breeding/resting place or obstruct access to their resting place.
This means, before any development work is to be underway, you must complete an otter survey if your project will be near these habitats. At Greenlight, we are here to advise and guide you on the specific surveys, appraisals and assessments you need and to complete them for you.
If you require mitigation or enhancements on your site too, our team can assist you. Get in touch with us today to discuss your project’s requirements and to keep otters safe and protected.
