Otter
Lutra lutra
Superbly adapted to amphibious lifestyle, occuring in both coastal waters and on rivers and lakes. Dives may last for several minutes. Feeds mainly on fish but also eats sea urchins around coasts. Persecution from fishing interests, hunting and habitat destruction have caused a serious decline in numbers. Once widespread but now common only on Western Isles, Orkney, Shetland and Ireland.