Otter Surveys

IMG_4323_33-12

IMG_4284_53-11

_MG_2075-1

IMG_4323_33-12

1/5

Why do I need an Otter Survey?

If a development could impact otters, which are found across Scotland. Habitats such as watercourses, coasts, estuaries, and wetlands within 200m of the development site should be surveyed for otter presence and potential disturbance. Note that the requirement for an otter survey may also be identified during a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) investigation.

Legal Protection

Otters in Scotland are classed as a European Protected Species (EPS) under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended).

Carrying out an Otter Survey

When

Otter surveys are possible throughout the year; however, periods after prolonged heavy rainfall or high-water levels should be avoided, as spraints and other otter signs may not be present. Additionally, heavy frost or recent snow can make it challenging to detect spraints.

How

A comprehensive survey of all suitable otter habitats within 200 metres of the proposed works should be conducted. This assessment must be carried out by a qualified otter surveyor and should involve a systematic search for spraints, tracks, pathways, slides, food remains, holts, and other potential shelters used by otters.

Checking Holts

Trail cameras and endoscopy are methods that can be used to determine if holts (places of refuge) are occupied and whether breeding is occurring, as otters may breed throughout the year.

Cameras with “no glow” LEDs are recommended. Because these techniques can cause disturbance, a survey licence from NatureScot will be required. Such methods should only be employed when establishing the status of a holt is necessary for planning suitable mitigation, or when it is not possible to avoid holt damage or disturbance.

The Survey Report Should Include

Information from Local Record Centres or other sources
Surveyors’ names and experience
Habitat descriptions and survey limitations (e.g., access)
Survey methods, including area, date, time, and weather
Map showing otter signs, holts, or other refuges relative to the development

Creating an Otter Protection Plan

If a survey identifies otters that may be impacted by a proposed development, a species protection plan is required.

A protection plan should contain:

An assessment of how the development might affect otters.
Mitigation approaches are intended to prevent offences and minimise impacts on otters.
A summary of potential residual effects after applying mitigation measures.

For additional information or to discuss how Northern Insight Ecology can support your project, please do not hesitate to contact us.