Residents fear for fish as otters invade gardens in Cumbria

In Cumbria, England, residents have been facing challenges with fish-eating otters returning to their gardens and causing havoc. Reports emerged in late October when Nigel Cooper, a local resident, discovered that his fish pond had been infiltrated by otters resulting in the death of nine of his fish, including Koi Carp and goldfish. This incident highlighted an ongoing issue as the otters had previously terrorized the area before disappearing for a few weeks, leading locals to believe they had died or moved away. Cooper's experience is not unique in Ulverston, as other residents also reported similar incidents. They noted that these otters previously went unnoticed but were drawn back to the gardens due to the availability of fish in ponds. The return of these animals sparked concern among locals, particularly for the safety of their fish. As a proactive measure to deter these animals, Cooper implemented an electric fence around his garden, which seemed to successfully scare the otters away when they approached. CCTV footage recorded the otters’ return demonstrating the persistent nature of these animals in their quest for food. Residents were advised to secure their gardens to prevent future incursions by the otters. They shared insights on how to block potential access points and keep the otters from climbing fences. Cooper expressed a fondness for otters despite the trouble they cause and has been actively documenting otter-related incidents to better understand the patterns of their activity. His affection for the creatures contrasts with the distress they cause among local fish owners, showcasing the complex relationship between wildlife and human habitation. The otters had briefly gone off the radar, which made residents anxious, but Nigel Cooper's research and preventive measures emphasize the importance of coexistence strategies in residential areas plagued by wildlife disruptions.