Public taxon detections (British Isles)

TaxaScreen® European Otter

Lutra lutra
Category: Native
Habitat: Semi-aquatic

Turnaround time: 5 business days

The European otter, a semi-aquatic carnivore, is native to rivers, lakes, and coastal habitats across the UK. Recognisable by its sleek brown fur, webbed feet, and powerful tail, it is an apex predator feeding on fish, crustaceans, and amphibians. Once severely reduced due to pollution and habitat loss, otter populations have rebounded in recent decades, making them an indicator of healthy freshwater ecosystems.
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Year-round freshwater use with eDNA detection probability highest February to April during breeding and territory establishment.
Which sampling kit will I need to buy?

We sell our sampling kits separately from our testing so that our clients have maximum flexibility.

This test needs one of:

 
We are also able to accept sampling kits from other companies for this test. 

As soon as your order is received our system emails you a sample submission form for this test. Please check your junk mail if you haven’t received it within a few minutes of your order. 

The email comes with full instructions for submitting your sample to us to ensure the best quality testing. 

You will receive your results in your online account

The testing for detection of this species is carried out via real-time PCR (qPCR), which has the greatest sensitivity and specificity of all eDNA detection methods. 

For customers without a business account we accept pre-payment with a debit or credit card. 

For customers who have a business account we are able to offer terms, purchase orders, credit/debit card payments and invoicing payment options. You can apply for a business account at the same time as you register for an account at checkout.

If you have any questions about sampling strategy, panel suitability, or anything else, book a free consultation with one of our molecular ecologists.