The Otter Lutra lutra in central Portugal

In a survey of central Portugal during August 1980, otters were found to be widespread with signs of animals 70% of the 90 stations visited. Otters were present on major rivers and their tributaries, on small streams connecting pools and at fetid pools in semi-dry river beds. The greatest densities of marking sites and signs were found around fetid pools. Snakes, as well as fish, were found to be important prey items. The survival, in good numbers, of the otter in Portugal may be due in part to the limited use of agricultural chemicals.