2008 Water Vole and Otter Survey Results
Over last summer with the help of volunteers, we carried out 4 water vole and otter surveys on the River Anton, stretching from the edge of Rooksbury Mill Nature Reserve, right up to Anton Lakes Local Nature Reserve in the north.
The main population of water voles were found around Anton Lakes. We also found evidence of otter around Anton Lakes, and found some anal jelly from an otter on the base of a tree near the college!
It is really good news that we have a strong population of both water vole and otter in this area, as water vole numbers have declined dramatically over recent years. However, we also found signs of the American Mink, which isn't as good. American Mink aren't native to this country, and a lot of them were released from fur farms. They are a huge threat to the water vole as they are better swimmers and will kill all of the voles in their territory. Work is being done to control the mink numbers.
In 2007 water vole and otter surveys were carried out in Rooksbury Mill Local Nature Reserve. Large populations of water vole were also found there. Signs of otter were also found. Click on map to enlarge (large file 3MB).
Water voles like areas of river with lots of vegetation for food and cover. They also like soft earth banks so that they can make their burrows in them. Anton Lakes and Rooksbury Mill have good habitat for water voles and otters. It is hoped that by enhancing parts of the river that have become degraded, we can encourage water voles and otters further along the river, towards the town centre.
Detail of the surveys on various parts of the river can be seen by clicking on the sector names below.
