Wildlife

Wild River Otter: Recovery and Coexistence with Fish Farming

Otter populations have recovered significantly in the UK, creating both conservation success and fishery conflict to manage.

Key Facts

UK otter populations have recovered from near-extinction to most river systems
Otter exclusion fencing around fish ponds is highly effective when properly installed
Compensation schemes for otter predation damage support coexistence
Otters indicate high water quality and healthy fish populations in river systems

Welfare Considerations

Recovered otter populations represent genuine conservation success. Conflict with fish farmers is real but manageable through fencing and compensation. The welfare of both wild otters and farmed fish must be considered in coexistence strategies.

What You Can Do

Support otter conservation organisations like the Otter Trust
Install otter-proof fencing around fish ponds rather than trapping
Report otter sightings to local wildlife trusts to support population monitoring