Project Supervisors: Paul and Grace Voxon

The Project:
Otters are semi-aquatic members of the family Mustelidae. As they use both land and aquatic habitats they are very important biological and environmental indicators.

The Eurasian Otter is the only otter species found in Europe where its range formerly extended from the Arctic to the Mediterranean and from Ireland in the west to the borders of Asia. Numbers are however seriously depleted in most of Europe.

Extensive studies on habitat requirements and populations have been undertaken by the Skye Environmental Centre/International Otter Survival Fund since 1989. We intend to develop this work into behavioural analysis and habitat utilisation by focussing on four known otter home ranges.

Objectives:
The objectives of the proposed study are to:
1. Determine social grouping including sexual and age structure within home range.
2. Study of diet within individual home ranges.
3. Study of cub development
4. Identification of individuals
5. Behavioural analysis in relation to season

Study Sites: Isle of Skye, Scotland
Lying off the north west coast of Scotland, the island of Skye is the largest of the Inner Hebridean islands with about 1000 km of coastline and the highest mountain range of any offshore island in Britain.

The island lies at 58~ latitude, the same as Moscow or the Labrador Sea. However, we have a rather mild oceanic climate brought about by the influence of the Gulf Stream.

Methods:
Volunteers will be involved in detailed mapping of four set areas, identif~ing holts, sprainting (dropping) points, otter runs and freshwater pool. Time will also be spent observing and recording behaviour. Spraint will also be collected for later analysis to reveal information on diet.

Conservation Significance:
The project will add to the data available on otters in Scotland which is essential for their conservation. It will also provide public awareness of otters and such detailed knowledge of individual home ranges is vital in view of the threat from development and disturbance.

Rendezvous:
At your Guest House or Bed and Breakfast accommodation in the Broadford area.

Accommodation & Food:

Volunteers will be staying in local guest houses or bed and breakfasts in the Broadford area. All meals will be provided and vegetarians can be catered for.

Medical Advice:
There is a local chemist, doctor and small hospital in Broadford but volunteers are asked to bring any medication they may need with them.

Field Communication:
Volunteers can be contacted on the 10SF phone/FAX as shown.

Field Supplies:

Volunteers MUST bring the following items:

* Waterproof jacket and trousers
* Wellington Boots or Strong Walking Boots
* Binoculars
* Small Rucksack for day use only
* Insect Repellent (during May-September)
* Compass
* Personal medication

Clothing:
In spite of its reputation, it is not always raining in Skye but the weather can change very quickly. So even in summer you may need warrn clothes as well as t-shirtslshorts, etc. Fleeces, etc are essential in winter and spring.

Need for Volunteers:
Volunteers will spend a week on each project and will be a part of a team performing the study.

There are no special qualifications or skills needed for volunteers on this project. However, volunteers must be fit and able to walk some distance over rough terrain. They should also be observant and have an interest in survey work and be patient as quite some time will be spent sitting observing.

PRICE: £350
Price includes:

7 nights dinner, bed, breakfast and packed lunch
All transport while on the island
All equipment necessary (except personal binoculars)

DATES:

10 - 17 April 1999
24 - 31 July 1999
7 - 14 August 1999
18 - 25 September 1999

Interested?

Contact us now!