A RECENT survey of the River Wey has found the first definite signs that EnglandÕs best loved mammal is back in the area, according to the Environment Agency.
The survey w as in response to a proposed development adjacent to the Caker Stream in Alton. As an ideal area for mammals, the developers were advised to commission a water vole survey.
However, instead of finding evidence of water voles along the stream, signs of otters were discovered. Since the survey was conducted, traces of otter life have also been detected in the Farnham area.
Debbie Cousins, a bio-diversity officer at the Environment Agency, said: ÒThe otter declined rapidly between the 1950s and 1970s, primarily after widespread use of certain pesticides. Since then weÕve only had brief evidence of them in the catchment. ItÕs great new that weÕve had the fist definite signs of otters for nine years.Ó
The Environment Agency has worked with Surrey Wildlife Trust and the Surrey Otter Project for a number of years to bring about large improvements in water quality and fish populations to create the right conditions for the otterÕs return.
Work has included the planting of shrubs and construction of log piles and tunnels to create a good habitat for otters, installation of fencing by nearby roads and the introduction of eels to the River Wey - one of the otterÕs favourite foods.
David Webb, an Agency bio-diversity specialist, added: ÒOtters are at the top of the food chain, and their presence is a positive indicator of the health of our rivers and wetlands. We are hopeful that this time the otter has returned to the Wey and Surrey for good.Ó