YACWAG Otter Group was set up in January 2012 to continue the work of the North Somerset Otter Group, run by Avon Wildlife Trust, which was disbanded when funding for the North Somerset Levels and Moors Project came to an end.

The group monitors the otter population in North Somerset, and sends records to BRERC (Bristol Regional Environmental Record Centre). We offer training to potential surveyors, and welcome records from members of the public. We are also happy to provide information and assist with enquiries (see below).

Since the group was founded otters have become a welcome local success story. The frequency of sightings has increased over the years, but you would still be lucky to see an otter as they are most active at night, and in the twilight hours.  

Although otters are no longer in danger of extinction in the UK they are still vulnerable and monitoring the population is important to ensure that they continue to thrive. Survey work relies on recognising signs such as spraint and footprints. Catching a glimpse of an otter is definitely a bonus!

Somerset Otter Group was founded by the late James Williams, who helped us launch the YACWAG group in January 2012. There is probably more otter expertise concentrated here than anywhere else in England.