Otter sighting in nature reserve

The otters' decline was linked to pesticides and habitat loss

A number of sightings of an otter has been reported at a nature reserve in Denbighshire over the past week.

It has been spotted at Brickfields Pond in Rhyl where it is believed to be feeding whilst the lower reaches of the River Clwyd are in full flood.

The preferred diet of the otter is fish, in particular eels, both of which are found in abundance at Brickfields.

Conservation groups are planning to construct an artificial holt which may encourage it to stay permanently.

The population of the elusive and nocturnal animals went into rapid decline in the 1960s, mainly because of water pollution.

Although there have been sightings during daylight hours the Denbighshire Countryside Service is relying on carp fishermen who are there 24-hours a day to pass on any information.

BRITAIN'S OTTERS Only one species found in UK, the European otter (Lutra lutra) Diet of mainly fish, but also birds and small mammals Breeds every two years; cubs stay with mother for a year Average lifespan of four years, but can reach 12 years Territory ranges between 1km and 40km

They want to determine whether it is male or female.

The Brickfields Pond Local Nature Reserve receives over 65,000 visitors a year and creates habitat site for more protected and vulnerable species.

However Denbighshire council said it wondered whether the reserve could cope with the visitor pressure on the already busy site.

The decline of otters has been linked to pesticides and habitat loss and hunting was outlawed in 1981.

But the otter's gradual return began with the phasing out of chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides which with other chemicals built up in fish including eels, the otter's prey of choice.