Otters and fish farms are in conflict across the UK, with otters predating valuable fish stocks and fish farm operators facing losses. Finding welfare-appropriate solutions protects both wildlife and livelihoods.
Otter-fish farm conflict creates welfare risks for otters through illegal persecution, trapping, and shooting that continues despite legal protection. Otters entering fish farm enclosures may also become trapped in nets and drown. The long-term solution — otter-proof fencing — protects both otter welfare and farmer interests, but requires upfront investment that smaller operations may struggle to fund.