Otter, published with the kind permission of the photographer Anthony Pioli
This website is proposing a Wildlife Watch page after Cathy Godwin, who lives by the Derwent near the bridge, spotted an otter on the river. If you see any wildlife worth telling us about and – better still – you can send a photo, then please email the webmaster.
Regarding otters, here’s a few bits of advice:
- You’re most likely to come across otter droppings – known as spraint – which is often found under bridges, where it’s less likely to be washed away by the rain. It often contains fish bones and scales, and has a distinctive aroma, sometimes likened to jasmine tea!
- The best time to see an otter is at dawn
- Be as quiet as possible and keep upwind, patience is key
- Please remember that otters are a protected species – disturbing otters or their habitat is an offence under the Wildlife & Countryside Act, so tread carefully and quietly.
