Police Scotland in Dumfries and Galloway are urging the public to come forward with any information regarding the death of an adult otter found at Loch Ken. The incident was reported to the police by a concerned citizen who discovered the lifeless otter on the Loch’s banks near Parton on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at approximately 2 PM.

Upon examination, it was determined that the otter had become entangled in a fyke net, which was likely set up illegally to catch crayfish in the river. The use of such nets without a proper license poses a significant risk to local wildlife.

PC John Cowan, Wildlife Crime Liaison Officer, highlighted the illegal nature of setting fyke nets without authorization and the dangers they pose to unsuspecting animals. Otters, known for their opportunistic feeding habits, can inadvertently become trapped in these nets and drown, as tragically occurred in this instance.

Law enforcement is working closely with the Loch Ken Ranger Service to identify those responsible for setting the illicit net. However, they are also seeking the assistance of the public in their investigation. Anyone with information about the net or any other relevant details is urged to contact the police through the non-emergency number 101, quoting incident reference number 2743 from June 28.