A - Z List of Species

Otter (Lutra lutra)

Description

This mustelid is ideally suited for its lifestyle with thick brown waterproof fur on top of soft fur. Its streamlined body helps it move well through the water and its long claws are used to catch fish and open crustaceans.

Behaviour

Most otters are nocturnal, coming out at dusk or dark to look for food. However in some of the more remote places they come out during the day. They live alone in burrows, often in the river bank.

Size

Otters are between 55-110cm long and can weigh 5-12kg. They can also live for about 10years

Where to see them

Loch of the Lowes, Falls of Clyde, Montrose Basin, Spey Bay

When to see them

All year round

Status

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 prevent from being killed, kept or sold without a license. Also labelled vulnerable under 2000 IUCN Red List

Distribution

They are found throughout Europe, N Africa and Asia. They are the only native otter in the UK and are most common in Scotland and Ireland

Fascinating facts

They can breed at any time of the year and will have 2-3 cubs at a time who will stay with their mother for at least four months