This summer we are helping to protect otters and all manner of other
flora and fauna found along the beautiful riverbanks of England and
Wales. The Otter Survey of 2000 -2002 demonstrates that this wonderful
resident of our countryside is slowly making a comeback after a period
that saw numbers drop to a record low.
The Dangers
To ensure the otters' revival it is imperative that riverbanks remain
hospitable places. Between the months of April and September mink hound
packs operate on rivers throughout England and Wales and the League
believes this activity could pose a serious threat to the otter
population.
The Law
These hunts were formerly interested in terrorising otters until
protective legislation in 1975 prompted the switch to the mink.
The Hunting Act 2004 has further complicated matters for these hunts
by outlawing the hunting of mink with dogs for sport; effectively taking
away their reason for being along the riverbanks with a pack of trained
hounds. More information can be found here.
Unfortunately, we now find that the hunters, determined in their
cruel pursuit of any quarry, claim to be hunting rats as a justification
for their presence.
However there is a solution in law. The Widlife and Countryside Act
1981 prevents damage and disturbance to the otter and its habitat.
What Can I Do?
Contact us if you know of any mink hunts in your area. A list of mink
hound packs can be found here. Report anyone you see disturbing otter
habitats to the police. Be a responsible dog owner and keep your dog on
a lead near rivers where otters are known to reside.
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