Gamekeeper admits keeping dead otter in freezer

Otters are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

A gamekeeper who admitted keeping a dead otter in his freezer said he was planning on having it stuffed to use for educational purposes.

Darren Fisher, 37, of Methley, Leeds, told the city's magistrates that he was not aware he needed a licence to possess either a live or dead otter - which are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Leeds Magistrates' Court heard earlier that police were searching his house on an unrelated matter when they discovered the young otter - along with several dead foxes - in the garage.

Fisher pleaded guilty to possessing a wild animal of listed species and was given a conditional discharge for 12 months, along with a £111 fine.

'Roadkill'

The court heard how police visited his property on 26 February and removed the deceased animals.

Fisher's defence barrister said he was given the otter by a young man who worked on a farm, as he was known to have an interest in taxidermy.

"He uses those animals for educational purposes, speaking to youngsters and using the animals to expand their knowledge of wildlife," he said.

The barrister said the animal was "roadkill" and stressed Fisher, who runs a rural security business, had since applied for a licence to keep otters.

Fisher was ordered to pay a surcharge of £26 and costs of £85.

Otters are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. It is an offence to kill, injure, capture or disturb otters except under licence.

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