Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) catching and eating snake pipefish (Entelerus aequoreus). Hebrides, Scotland.

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra). Hebrides, Scotland

Pair of Eurasian river otters (Lutra lutra) foraging in and among the seaweed. Otters on Scotland's west coast and islands have adapted well to making a living in the marine environment. Hebrides, Scotland

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) eating fish, long-spined bullhead (Taurulus bubalis). Hebrides, Scotland

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) foraging in and among the seaweed. Otters on Scotland's west coast and islands have adapted well to making a living in the marine environment. Hebrides, Scotland

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra). Hebrides, Scotland.

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) mother eating fish with cub closeby. The cub tried unsuccessfully to obtain some of its mother's catch. Hebrides, Scotland

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) having caught Greater spotted dogfish (Scyliorhinus stellaris). The otter took only the innards of the dogfish by opening a short section of skin behind the pectoral fin (see images under 'Greater spotted dogfish'). The

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) eating a male lumpsucker (Cyclopterus lumpus) fish, also known as a sea hen or scarclagger. Hebrides, Scotland

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra). Otters in western Scotland have adapted well to life in a marine environment, though proximity to sources of fresh water is essential. Hebrides, Scotland

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) resting in the seaweed and rocks. Otters spend a great deal of time resting, usually close to the water's edge or on rocks just offshore. This time is spent sleeping and preening fur etc. Notice the recent injuries su

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) resting on seaweed. Otters spend a great deal of time resting ashore, usually near to the water's edge. This time is spent sleeping and preening fur etc. Visits ashore may also be to find fresh water to drink. Hebrid

Eurasian river otter (Lutra lutra) finishing a meal in the seaweed. Hebrides, Scotland