A key difference was in relation to the perceptions on the protected status of the otter – most angling stakeholders from Suffolk felt the species no longer needed protection, there were mixed views in Somerset, and few calls for the removal of protected status in Kent.
37
There were commonalities between the three case study areas in terms of which management strategies are deemed to be effective or not. Otter-proof fencing was seen as the only effective current deterrent on stillwaters (including garden ponds), although costs can be restrictive, ongoing fence perimeter management must be maintained, and not all stillwaters are fenceable. There was consensus among all stakeholders that otter-proof fencing should be prioritised in terms of funding on stillwaters.
River spaces are more challenging. There is a reluctant acceptance that nothing can be done on rivers in the short term, but the possibility of longer term solutions need further investigation – i.e. for habitat restoration.
There were commonalities between the three case study areas in terms of stakeholder views on management strategies. Angling stakeholders suggested alternative management strategies for unfenceable waters, including: localised lethal control, capture and relocation (these practices are currently illegal and indeed there is not appetite to seek a change in legislation), as well as habitat restoration of unfenceable spaces. Wildlife stakeholders do not want otters to become victims of persecution, and only support the latter alternative of restoration. The Eurasian Otter is generally seen as unkillable – across a range of stakeholders – including anglers.
Fishery owners and angling clubs would like more access to otter predation management knowledge and financial support to implement protective strategies. Continued dialogue between angling and wildlife stakeholders should be encouraged through forums such as Catchment Partnerships and Fisheries Forums. These forums could also help to share specialist knowledge and predation management advice. In addition, those involved in fencing activities should be signposted to new information and guidance that is being made available – for example, from the Angling Trust and through the Fishery Management Advisors. This information can help to provide consistent advice on effective fencing specifications. Finally, at a regional level some type of ‘live secure’ system which logs otter sightings (but with suitable administration and resourcing in order to maintain the security of information) would help communicate where otters have been spotted near fisheries. Such an option could benefit unfenced waters as an early warning of recolonisation, and at the very least attempt to generate a more collaborative response to issues of otter predation.
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