Dead otter at Sibster could have been female with cubs – drivers urged to be aware of wildlife on roads
An otter that may have been a female with cubs was discovered dead at the side of a rural road in Caithness.
The International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF) based in Boadford on the Isle of Skye was contacted after the apparent road casualty was found on the edge of the B874 road at Sibster.
The photographs reproduced here and the exact location were shared with the organisation which uses the data to highlight blackspots when it comes to road deaths. IOSF director Grace Yoxon said: "Yet another dead otter on the road. It is so sad when an otherwise healthy animal is killed in this way. This one appears to be a female and if there are cubs they will also die unless they are found and taken into an appropriate wildlife rehabilitation centre.
"We would urge all drivers to be aware not just of otters but all animals on the road. If you find a dead otter or cub which may need help please contact us on 01471 822 487 for advice on what to do. Please remember, do not attempt to touch or pick up a cub or injured animal as they can bite and the mother may not be dead but away feeding."
The IOSF says that all information received from the public allows the charity to work with highway agencies and provide better infrastructure such as safe crossing points for animals.
For more information visit www.otter.org
The organisation has a short video to watch at:
The International Otter Survival Fund works to conserve the world's otters.
