Otter Surveys
The otter Lutra lutra is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended).
It is an offence to deliberately capture, injure or kill an otter, or to damage, destroy or obstruct access to an otter resting place or breeding site. As a result, development proposals that have the potential to affect otters or their habitats may require ecological surveys to support planning applications and ensure compliance with wildlife legislation.
When is an Otter Survey Needed?
An otter survey may be required where development proposals involve works within or adjacent to rivers, streams, ditches, lakes, ponds, wetlands or other aquatic habitats.
Surveys may also be necessary where development could affect commuting routes, foraging habitat or resting sites used by otters.
What Does an Otter Survey Involve?
Otter surveys involve a detailed assessment of watercourses and surrounding habitats to identify evidence of otter activity and determine how the species may be affected by proposed works.
Surveys may include:
- Habitat assessments including habitat connectivity and commuting routes.
- Searches for field signs, including footprints, spraints, slides and feeding remains.
- Identification of resting places and holts.
- Advice on avoidance, mitigation and enhancement measures.
Survey findings help determine whether otters are present and identify any measures required to avoid or minimise impacts.
Mitigation and Licensing
Where impacts to otters cannot be avoided, mitigation measures may be required. In some circumstances, a licence from Natural England may be necessary before works can proceed.
How Stour Ecology can help
Stour Ecology provides otter surveys and ecological advice for planning applications and development projects across Suffolk, Essex and the surrounding counties. We work with homeowners, developers, architects and planning consultants to provide practical, proportionate solutions and help projects progress through planning.
+44 7873736876
