Related links
Application Forms
Otter licences - Surveys, science, research and education
Otter surveys generally involve walking through potential otter habitat looking for places they use for shelter or protection (such as couches, lying-up sites, or holts), or for signs of activity (such as slides or sprainting sites).
Providing that surveys are carried out with due regard to minimising inadvertent disturbance to otters, and as long as there is no invasive or prolonged examination of structures that could be currently used by otters, then a licence is not required.
In the following situations a licence might be required:
- If more invasive examinations are required or if there will be frequently repeated visits to such structures;
- Fitting infra-red cameras or camera traps close to suspected holts or places of shelter;
- Photographing otters at or near the holt or photography that could disturb otters whilst rearing or caring for their young;
- Carrying out any scientific or research projects that might involve disturbing otters in holts or other structures or for catching or marking otters.
However, licences will only be granted if there is no other satisfactory solution and subject to other strict criteria being met.