Cotter return: threat to fish farming in Baden-Württemberg?

Cotter return: threat to fish farming in Baden-Württemberg?

Stuttgart, Deutschland - The return of the otter in Baden-Württemberg causes excitement! These charming predators, who were considered extinct almost 100 years ago, were spotted again in the region. The Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Environment confirmed the return of these animals, which live primarily in the rivers Tauber, Jagst, Dreisam, Elz and Danube. There have been evidence again and again since 2017, and specimens have been spotted several times, especially in the Black Forest Baar district. But while some are happy about the return, others see the risk of fish farming.

FDP calls for measures against the Otter

The Free Democratic Party (FDP) sees the return of the otter as a positive sign of species protection, but fears that the animals could spread quickly. Klaus Hoher, the FDP's nature conservation policy spokesman, calls for a counseling center for fish breeders and anglers. In cases where the otter cause serious problems, even shooting in exceptional cases could be required. The worries are great - after all, a otter can eat up to 15 percent of its body weight on fish and eat other animals every day!

The state association of professional fishermen and pond hosts also warns of the possible consequences of the return of the Otter. Although no damage to fish farming has yet been reported, the fishermen fear that this is only a matter of time. They believe that the number of oters in Baden-Württemberg is higher than the sightings suggest. They also speak out for a consideration of the shooting if there is a danger to fish breeding.

Currently, however, the Ministry of the Environment is not planning any measures against the Otter. There is still no damage that is due to the return of the animals, and not sufficient evidence to say that the species has already established itself. If there are any problems, the fencing of fish breeds is considered as a possible solution. In Bavaria, the oters are even more common and subject to strict protective measures, but in exceptional cases they can also be hunted to protect fish farming.