12 Jun Supporting Professional Development: Otter and Water Vole Ecology and Survey Training
During May 2025, Ecologists from BSG Ecology’s Newport office completed training in otter and water vole ecology and survey techniques, provided by Mike Dean in collaboration with the Species Recovery Trust.
The two-part training was designed to provide attendees with a better understanding of both species, and improve field survey skills. The online session covered species’ ecology, relevant legislation and UK conservation status, as well as identification of field signs. Participants also learnt about survey methods and habitat management practices which can enhance the species’ habitat.
A practical session took place along the River Coln in Fairford, offering an invaluable opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge learnt from the online session in a field setting. Otter spraint was readily identified on prominent features such as logs and next to weirs by its characteristic scent and appearance. Evidence of water vole including feeding remains, droppings and burrows was also found within riverside vegetation.
The participants were able to gain confidence in differentiating between field signs of various other mammal species, as well as learning how to conduct effective surveys. The course concluded with a sighting of a water vole swimming across the river and disappearing into a burrow, a fitting end to an informative and useful training session.
Rhys Lewis, Ecologist commented: “Mike Dean was very knowledgeable of otter and water vole ecology. The online session was engaging and informative and the field visit allowed us to apply the concepts we had learnt in the online training across a variety of habitat types. After attending the training, I feel confident in carrying out effective otter and water vole survey design. The River Coln is an excellent location for seeing evidence for both species and seeing a water vole was a highlight.”
