With its playful, hand-holding, pebble-juggling ways, the otter wins the cuteness contest with its eyes closed. It's no wonder such a stunningly elegant and charismatic animal has been the star of films and books and the inspiration for thousands to make pilgrimages to rivers in Devon or rings of bright water in Scotland.
But do not be deceived. As Brett Westwood discovers, this elusive wild animal is a skilled and ferocious predator and, given half a chance, he'll have your fingers off!
Writer Miriam Darlington shows Brett the paw prints on the banks of the river Dart, and describes the first time she ever saw an otter.
Anthony Phillips, once the guitarist for global pop group Genesis, now composes music for screen and, he tells us, it all started with reading and feeling compelled to make music inspired by Tarka.
Dr Elizabeth Chadwick, who manages to slit otters open for science, explains how the otter's insides are a barometer of health for our environment.
Dr Daniel Allen charts the history of otter hunting from anglers removing fish-eating vermin, to a Great British summertime sport, and the legislation that saved them.
And Olivia Morgan reads Robert Macfarlane's spell for conjuring an otter, over the watery sounds of Joanna Newsom's Divers, in an attempt to evoke the slippery land fish that inspires such awe, devotion and fear.
This year's Annual Meeting of the East Devon AONB is at the Donkey Sanctuary - and promises to be quite a feast: East Devon AONB Annual Meeting & Acland Award Presentation
Join us for an evening of presentation and celebration at the East Devon AONB Partnership Annual meeting.
It’s the main event in the East Devon AONB calendar, bringing together key local supporters, businesses, AONB Partnership members and our Ambassadors, in support of our outstanding area of natural beauty.
Come along and enjoy an evening hearing from our engaging speakers and connecting with others; with the opportunity to network in an informal environment over a complimentary buffet.
With our focus this year on wildlife, the environment and heritage, we’re delighted to have Harry Barton, Chief Executive of Devon Wildlife Trust, as our keynote speaker and further presentation from Mike Baker, CEO of the Donkey Sanctuary.
We will also celebrate exceptional local projects, with the presentation of this year’s Acland Award – our annual commendation of innovative and meaningful activity thatenhances, conserves or promotes the AONB.
Places are limited and invites are open to AONB Partnership members, Ambassadors, AONB supporters and special guests, so please register to confirm your attendance ASAP.
The Donkey Sanctuary holds lots of 'volunteer days' - and this weekend it's offering a chance to learn a little about willow:
Working with Living Willow Volunteer Day
Event date: 24/05/2017 - 10:00am to 4:00pm
Location: Slade House Farm, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 0NU
Event status: Places available
Each month we run one or two Volunteer Days where everyone is welcome to come and help us carry out conservation work on one of our Devon/Dorset farms. Help us help wildlife and meet like-minded people, learn new skills, get some fresh air and get stuck in!
We will be building a living willow structure at Slade House Farm, Sidmouth, using willow from our own willowbeds. Get involved and take home a bundle of willow for your own project.
Wear sturdy footwear and outdoor clothing to suit the weather conditions. Gloves and tools will be provided, however feel free to bring your own if you wish. Hot drinks will be provided. Bring a packed lunch and a bottled drink or thermos for whilst we are working. No experience necessary – just plenty of enthusiasm!
These are free events, however, booking is recommended.
How to book
To book a place and for further information about this and future Volunteer Days, please contact Ruth by phone or email:
