This scientific description of otter populations and the behaviour of the species in the wild has been written from direct observation of otter populations in Scotland, where the animals are still abundant. It aims to provide a basis for active conservation management.

Wild Otters answers the need for an up-to-date, scientifically-oriented introduction to the Lutra lutra species. Based in part on the author's extensive field observations, the book provides a superb basis for active conservation management of a species faced with an increasingly hostile environment. Topics include social organization and behavior, food and foraging strategies, ecological information on their main prey fish, problems of energetics and thermo-insulation, population structure, mortality and reproduction, and the impact of humans. Packed with illustrations and photographs, Wild Otters is perfect for students and researchers in ecology, conservation, zoology, and animal behavior.

I found this book fascinating. Although no doubt biased because of my own interest in otters, I recommend it to anyone interested in carnivore ecology and conservation.