Alarm at otter deaths

12:09pm Sunday 29th June 2008

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CONSERVATIONISTS are alarmed at the growing numbers of dead otters discovered in Somerset.

A total of 19 have been found dead in the county so far this year, including four litters of cubs, totalling ten animals.

James Williams, chairman of Somerset Otter Group, said: "Although most otter deaths are the result of traffic accidents, some of the cubs were found away from roads.

"Post mortems have revealed signs of lung disease in two of these.

"2006 was a very bad year for the otter in Somerset. 2007 was a bad year for cubs and unfortunately it looks like 2008 may be the same."

The otter population in the county has grown in recent years after it declined almost to extinction.

Mr Williams added: "In Somerset, we've already lost our population of these animals once within living memory. We musn't let that happen again."

Another threat to otters is a new parasite believed to have been introduced via ornamental fish imported from Russia and Eastern Europe, which are now thriving in the Somerset Levels.

If you want to become involved in helping to protect otters, contact James Williams of Somerset Otter Group on 01823-461655. The next major survey will be carried out in April 2009.