Summary

Description

Four national otter surveys have been completed for England and Wales in 1977-79, 1984-86, 1991-94 and 2000-02. The fifth completed in 2009-10 is only available for England. Two field survey techniques are used – full surveys for sites investigated in previous national surveys and spot-checks for all the alternate 50km squares not covered in previous surveys. Droppings (spraints) and footprints are the positive signs. Spot checks are made for up to 10 locations within the survey square. The presence of mink is also recorded but this is only included as part of the more detailed otter survey. Further details are available at: http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/wildlife/110740.aspx