Seasonal exploitation of amphibians by otters (<i>Lutra lutra</i>) in north‐east Scotland

Abstract

The dietary importance of amphibians to otters was studied in north‐east Scotland in 1987. The proportion of amphibians identified in otter droppings varies seasonally and according to the habitat. The consumption of amphibians increases in late winter and spring while they are either hibernating or spawning. Estimations of amphibian population density at spawning sites have been carried out. There is a significant correlation between the availability of amphibians and their consumption by otters. The main amphibian species involved in the diet is the common frog, Rana temporaria (60.8%), while the common toad, Bufo bufo , represents only 1.7% of the amphibian prey.