Eurasian otters have recovered in many European countries following water quality improvements, but face ongoing threats from road mortality, illegal persecution and pollution.
Otter welfare is closely linked to water quality and prey availability. Road mortality near watercourse crossings causes trauma and death that appropriate infrastructure modifications can prevent. Illegal persecution persists in some areas despite strong legal protections. The recovery of UK otters from near extinction to their current population demonstrates that meaningful wildlife welfare improvement is achievable through sustained policy intervention. Maintaining water quality and reducing road mortality remain the most impactful ongoing welfare contributions.