The welfare story of Britain's recovering otter population and the ongoing challenges they face.
The otter recovery story is one of conservation's greatest UK successes, but individual otter welfare remains threatened by multiple factors. Road mortality is the most significant — otters following watercourses encounter roads where bridges provide no safe passage. Many are killed attempting to cross above the water level rather than through the culvert below. Otter ledges and holts beneath bridges, along with road signage, have reduced mortality in targeted areas.
Water quality directly affects otter welfare through its effect on fish prey abundance. Poor water quality, eutrophication, and fish kills reduce prey availability and force otters to travel further, increasing road crossing frequency. Riparian habitat loss removes holts and resting places, increasing stress.
Entanglement in eel traps and fish traps causes drowning — a significant welfare concern for both the trapped otter and the trapper who discovers it. Modified trap designs with otter guards substantially reduce this risk.