ISLE OF COLL OTTERS - Sightings on the island

The laughing otter of Coll

FRIDAY 14TH NOVEMBER 2008

Today I was strolling along Wee Toraston beach with my dog Holly when I saw something run across the beach. Was I ready with my camera?? errrr, No! and Wow ! it was an otter.

The otter had been sat on a rock next to the fresh water burn, he was shiny black so had probably been washing in the clean, fresh water.

Quickly I got out my camera, but the lighting was really dull and cloudy. Would he still be there? I approached quietly and watched from a distance. My camera lens isn't quite long enough for wildlife photography, but I did manage to get a couple of shots, not brilliant, but just seeing the otter was thrilling enough.

Holly, my dog, was told to lie down, which she did, bless her. She stayed very quiet and very still.

Soon the otter appeared, he was playing in the water, he looked to be laughing at me. He had a beautiful smile. What a cheeky otter !!

Say cheese !!! The cheeky otter gives me a toothy grin

This is the second sighting for me this year. My first was in the spring time at North Shore, Sorisdale, and the time was about 4.30 pm. Again the otter left the sea to wash in the burn. The wind was in my favour and I was able to sit on the hillside with two dogs and watch him.

Many believe that the best time to watch otters is early morning or dusk, but I think it depends on the tide. They appear to use the incoming tide to play and fish.

Both my sightings have been in the afternoon.

Otter tracks can be found on most beaches, often next to a fresh water burn, which otters use daily.

Please report any sightings to the Otter Trust on Skye.

Spotting an otter is so exciting and rewarding !!

Otter tracks lead straight back into the sea

Click here to report sightings of otters

Please remember that otters are very shy and timid creatures and are usually spotted as they try to feed or wash. If you are lucky enough to spot one, please keep your distance and watch quietly. If you move closer and closer you may disturb them and will most certainly frighten them.

Otters are wonderful to watch, playful, amusing and simply amazing. Good luck with your Otterwatch.