Wildlife Welfare

Wild River Otter Fishery Coexistence

Recovering otter populations interact with fisheries and aquaculture. Effective coexistence strategies protect both otters and fishing interests.

Key Facts

UK otter populations have recovered significantly since organochlorine pesticide bans
Otters take fish from both wild and farmed sources
Electric fencing provides effective, humane exclusion from fish ponds
Compensation schemes are not systematically available in all regions
Road mortality remains a significant threat to expanding otter populations

Welfare Considerations

Otters excluded from food sources by electric fencing must find alternative prey - a welfare cost that is proportionate given their widespread recovery and the legitimate interests of fish producers. However, lethal control of legally protected otters causes direct welfare harm. Investment in effective, humane exclusion infrastructure protects both otter welfare and fish farm viability.

What You Can Do

Support otter conservation programs and habitat protection
Use electric fencing to humanely exclude otters from fish farms
Report otter persecution to wildlife crime authorities
Advocate for compensation schemes that support coexistence