From summer 2004, a mother otter with 2 cubs has been feeding in the loch. This is a huge task for the mother as she has to feed herself and 2 growing cubs. By early 2005, the mother was letting the youngsters know in no uncertain terms that the good times were over and they were increasingly having to fend for themselves. At this time, the cubs were almost fully-grown. Lacking mother's skill, the young otters often chose easy-to-catch prey such as crabs. Fortunately, there seems to be enough food to sustain these otters and the others that feed in Loch Aline.
In other parts of the country, otters are seldom seen during the day but here, where they are left in peace, they can be seen during the day and will allow people to approach reasonably close. Binoculars and telephoto lenses are a great asset. Below are some of the photos I have taken on my walks along Loch Aline.
Photos from left to right, top to bottom:-
See also
Photos and text by Ian Lamb.