Range and diet of Eurasian otters Lutra lutra (L.) in the catchment of the River Lee (south-east England) since re-introduction

摘要: 1. After re-introduction in 1991 of Eurasian otters Lutra lutra (L.) to the River Lee catchment (England), changes range were assessed from spraint collections periods 1991–1994, 1995–1997 and 1998–2000. Diet, concerted sampling within first two periods, was compared between 1992–1994 1996–1997, with dietary preferences for initial phase using available fish stock data that period. 2. In encompassed much catchment, but reduced a small area around release site, when joined/replaced by natural immigrants presumed come contiguous catchment. Range expanded 1998–2000 upper reaches catchment's major tributaries. 3. Fish, mainly cyprinids, prey taken 1996–1997. In abundant near site became more prominent, particular chub Leuciscus cephalus, (upstream) species characteristic decreased importance. 4. Despite confirmed unconfirmed sightings females cubs, it remains unclear whether presence apparent expansion is result or immigration/recolonization. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.