Otter dies tangled in illegal fishing net at island loch
The animal was discovered at Clickimin Loch near Lerwick, Shetland, on April 29.
An otter has died tangled in an illegal fishing net at a Scottish loch.
The animal was discovered at Clickimin Loch near Lerwick, Shetland, on April 29.
It is illegal to lay traps or nets in fresh water lochs without a permit in Scotland.
Police Scotland wildlife crime officer Daniel Sutherland said: "Police and partners would like to remind the public that otters are a European Protected Species and it is an offence to harm such species through reckless conduct.
"Furthermore, it is an offence to lay down any trap within a fresh water loch without a permit.
"Sadly, this otter has been killed by the reckless setting of an illegal fishing net. I would urge anyone with any information to make contact with local officers via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."