Surveying

One of our group’s objectives is to provide seasonal records of the presence of otters (and other river mammals) in Dorset. This information is collated and sent to the Dorset Environmental Records Centre (DERC). As with many species, casual records are always appreciated by the Records Centre.

The Dorset Otter Group relies on its network of volunteers. If you are interested in becoming more involved in the work of the group, then please contact us.

Our surveyors learn how to check for signs of otters, as well as other species such as mink and water vole. These surveys are conducted each season. As otters are so elusive sightings are rare, but they do leave different signs of their presence (such as prints), these can be used to collect data.

The surveys over time provide valuable data that can be used just like the British Trust for Ornithology’s bird surveys have, to highlight population trends over many years and decades. But it has greater value than this.

As part of the group you will receive a survey information pack and a quarterly newsletter. Starting with the Spring 2002 edition there is an index of newsletters on the site.
We also have other activities such as Holt building and guest speakers.
Factsheets on Otter Holt Construction and Habitat Management are available.

There are a variety of books on otters, as well as the Environment Agency's otter habitat management guide.