Barnsley Biodiversity Action Plan. Post-15 BAP. Updated to 2023

 Biodiversity

 Action

 Plan

Otter conservation

The return of the Otter to most of England is one of the major conservation success stories of the last 30 years.


There is potential through local conservation measures to increase its presence in Barnsley


Reasons for decline and loss

Further information + advice

Standing Advice Otters: surveys and mitigation for development projects


Natural England information

Mammal Society: facts  signs

PTES  facts & figures national survey


Associated Local Priority Habitats

Otter image

Good practice in conservation management for Otter

A catchment-wide approach is essential. The main drivers for increases in the numbers of Otters have been drops in levels of toxic pesticides, improvements in water quality, and increases in fish stocks.

Otter on tree branch near water

Legal protection.

Otters are a European Protected Species and fully protected under he Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 and Schedule 5 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981.


It is an offence whether on purpose or by not taking enough care to


It also has the same protection as other mammals from deliberate cruelty under the Wild Mammals Protection Act.


The Otter is a Section 41 species of principal importance for conservation and as such need to be taken into consideration by any public body in managing their estate. NERC Act (2006)

Otter Conservation