Could you train to be an otter spotter? Then join our Otter Survey Evening

The River Erme catchment is home to some remarkable wildlife, but how much do we really know about what lives alongside us? WATER is on a mission to find out, and otters are next on the list.

The Eurasian otter is one of our most iconic and elusive river mammals, and one of the most powerful indicators of a healthy waterway. Their presence tells us that a river has clean water, healthy fish populations, and undisturbed bankside habitat. Where otters thrive, rivers thrive. Understanding where they are, and where they aren’t, helps us build a clearer picture of the Erme’s ecological health and identify where our efforts are most needed.

As part of our ongoing work to fill data gaps across the catchment, WATER is planning The Otter Project, a dedicated otter survey evening led by The Devon Biodiversity Records Centre and Devon Wildlife Trust. This evening event is for a limited number of our supporters who would receive training as Otter Surveyors. Once trained, you would be signing up for otter surveys several times per year on an ongoing basis. We appreciate that this is quite a commitment, but a successful survey requires a sustained record of sitings.  

On the training evening, you’ll learn how to identify the signs of otter activity, from spraints and footprints to holts and habitat clues. You will play a direct role in gathering the evidence that will help shape how we protect and restore the river for years to come. This is very rewarding work and as you become proficient, you will build your own intimate knowledge of your local otters, their personalities, habits and habitats. Along that journey you’ll gain some very special moments to treasure.

The event is planned for 26th May 2026 (17:30 – 20:00)and will take place within the Erme Catchment. Please note that, as this event involves wildlife surveying, the exact location will be shared only with confirmed participants, along with safety information. 

This Survey Training event is for adults only, although once you’ve signed up, you can choose to engage younger members of your family in your surveys if you wish and take appropriate safety precautions. 

Places will be limited and are open only to residents in the Erme catchment – see map below. 

If you would like to be involved, please email: rebeccak@ermeriver.org or charlotter@ermeriver.org to register your interest. 

Please put OTTER PROJECT as the subject. 

We would love to have you join us on the riverbank.