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The Otter

The Otter: Madra Uisce.

Otters are widespread in Ireland around the coast, and along the river and lakes. They construct their 'Hoit' on the bank and as a shy, nocturnal (usually) animal, their presence is confirmed by mud slides used in play and by 'spraints' containing fish bones mainly which are deposited on a rock as a mark of territory. The expert eye of the wildlife ranger identified their site here by the luscious green grass growth on tufts where they defecated after their meal of eels, fish, frogs, small birds, rodents, insects, newts, slugs, earthworms and tadpoles. Occasionally, salmon or trout may be caught. They are accomplished swimmers and can stay under water for 4 minutes. Their underwater prey is carried ashore between teeth or clasped by forepaws appearing like human hand clasps.

Sense of smell and hearing very acute though eyesight is not very sharp. In heavy seas, they whistle to maintain contact with other otters.

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