A disturbing injury to a river otter found near Ambleside Pier has prompted The Fur-Bearers offer a $1,000 reward for information that leads to identification and conviction of the person(s) responsible.
We were informed by Critter Care Wildlife Society of the grisly and upsetting case. An initial report of an otter caught in fishing lines was passed on two weeks ago, and on May 21, Critter Care was able to catch and bring into their care the river otter. The adult female was found to have what appears to be a snare deeply cutting into the flesh around her neck. She is currently being treated with antibiotics, is eating, and may recover enough to be released into the wild.
The Fur-Bearers are offering a $1,000 reward for anyone who can provide information that leads to the identification and conviction of the person(s) responsible for setting the snare in question.
While it is possible that this is some type of wiring used for a legitimate purpose, by all accounts it looks and acts like a snare – used out of season – on an animal that suffered greatly. If an individual intentionally set this snare and allowed for this kind of horrific treatment, we believe they should face an investigation and charges.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Conservation Officer Service.
Photo of the river otter resting after treatment provided by Critter Care Wildlife Society
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