Damage Identification, Prevention, and Control 

Common damage issues include consumption of fish in stocked ponds and the use of boat docks and fishing piers as latrine sites, which can require routine clean-up and can be sources of disease (bacteria, parasitic, etc.). 
 

Damage Identification 

Before developing an otter control plan, be sure to correctly identify the source of the problem. Partially consumed fish aren’t automatically indicative of otter presence. Fish deaths can have a variety of natural causes which include, but are not limited to: illness, parasites, and low oxygen levels. Dead fish will float to the surface and become available to a variety of scavengers, including raccoons, skunks, mink, birds-of-prey, and others. Although a visual sighting is best, it is not always possible to identify an otter at a distance. A combination of fish heads, tracks and scat will provide more certainty of otter presence in an area. If you suspect an otter issue, but are uncertain, contact your local county agent to help confirm the cause of the problem.