Otter Survey
Where stretches of coastline, water courses and bodies, associated riparian habitats, and nearby ecologically linked terrestrial habitats are deemed likely to be affected by project proposals, an otter survey may be required, which aims to establish the presence/ likely absence of natal dens or holts in proximity to the site.
Otters are found along coastlines and water courses throughout Britain, though at lower densities across much of England. The British population crashed during the middle of the 20th century, though it has steadily recovered since. They are fully protected under UK and European law, making it an offence of kill, capture, or disturb them, or to damage their habitat. Works affecting otters are subject to licensing procedures.
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The appraisal is used to inform the emerging scheme design, enabling significant ecological effects within the zone of influence to be avoided, mitigated, or compensated for, where necessary. This ensures the continued favourable conservation status of otters, post development, and ultimately compliance with nature conservation legislation and planning policy.
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There are two types of otter survey, comprising presence/ likely absence surveys, and the monitoring of holts/ natal dense for signs of current use. Presence/ likely absence surveys involve systematically traversing a section of coastline, watercourse, or margins of a water body, searching for evidence of otter activity, as well as confirmed or potential natal dens, holts, or couches. The survey typically encompasses a 10m buffer of terrestrial habitat, either side of the water feature, and extends 150m along suitable habitat beyond the site. The field survey is typically supplemented by a desk study, utilising maps and aerial photographs of the surrounding area to identify ecological connectivity, and published records of otters, purchased from the local records centre.
If the presence of natal dens or holts is established, it may be necessary to demonstrate that they are in active use, or defunct. This is typically achieved by undertaking four week-long monitoring visits, spaced over at least a month. A variety of methods may be employed, including the deployment of hair traps, footprint traps, or camera traps, or endoscoping and dusk monitoring.
Requirements for any necessary avoidance, mitigation, or compensation measures will be identified, and opportunities for ecological enhancement will be outlined, to integrate on-site biodiversity net gain into the scheme at an early stage, where possible.​ If the proposals are deemed likely to adversely affect otters, a European protected species mitigation licence may be required, prior to the commencement of works.
Certain mitigation works affecting otters are seasonally constrained, making it prudent to plan ahead and consider ecological issues early on in the planning process. A robust otter survey at an early stage in project planning and design can therefore deliver significant benefits, avoiding potentially costly and time-consuming delays.​
When
Otter surveys can be undertaken throughout the year.
Why Us
With over fifteen years' experience in undertaking ecological surveys, mitigation design, licensing, site supervision, and monitoring, our team of expert ecologists can help guide your project through the planning process.
Our licensed ecologists can appraise your site's otter suitability, undertake surveys, design mitigation strategies, and apply for mitigation licences.
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By working closely with our clients, we ensure that their developments progress smoothly and in full compliance with the law, orchestrating the best possible outcome for them and the natural world.
