25 OCTOBER 2024

BEN YOXON, INTERNATIONAL OTTER SURVIVAL FUND EDUCATION OFFICER

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Ben Yoxon from the International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF) at Broadford, Skye came across to the Ceilidh House and gave us a really fascinating talk about otters from around the world and those that live in our area. We accompanied Ben on a walk after the talk along the shore from the Ceilidh House and Ben showed us the places otters regularly visit and why, and showed us a nearby otter holt. Ben is planning to return to give a talk to the school children of Glenelg in summer 2025.

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Some interesting things about otters...

There are 13 species of otters worldwide, found in diverse habitats ranging from coastal regions to freshwater environments. The Eurasian Otter is the only species of otter found in the UK.

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Otters are semi-aquatic, adapted to both land and water, with webbed feet and dense fur.

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Otters eat primarily fish, but also crustaceans, amphibians, and occasionally small mammals.

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Otters are generally solitary except for mothers with young. They typically have 2-3 pups.

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Otters are fully protected in the UK under Sched. 5 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981.

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A male otter can reach up to 1 metre and weigh 12kg. They normally have a lifespan of around 5-10 years.

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Otters inhabit rivers, ponds, wetlands, and coastal areas. One has even been seen just a few feet from the summit of a munro!