THE OTTER AMONG US: AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE OTTER IN BRITAIN. By James Williams.

(2000) 2008 reprint. 8vo (165 x 232mm). Ppviii,176. Colour photographs, colour and b/w illustrations by Bruce Pearson, brief bibliography. Green boards, spine titled in gilt.

"In The Otter Among Us, a record of a lifetime's study and observation, James Williams answers many questions. Why, for example, such an attractive creature has given rise to many misunderstandings about its habits; how these very specialised animals operate in the rivers of lowland Britain; how the lifestyle they have adapted to cope with changing habitats also ensures they remain rare - and mysterious... The Otter Among Us will add greatly to the knowledge of those who delight in otters just as it will encourage those who wish they could claim to have sighted one. James Williams' words of wisdom and Bruce Pearson's evocative illustrations will persuade readers that there is every reason to look for and appreciate the otter among us". Chapters include: A glimpse of an otter; What was it you saw?; The otter at night; Signs of the otter; Lifestyle of a specialist; Family life; Following the otter; Food and predation; Decline and anxieties; Conservation and present situation; The otter in today's world. Appendices on mink and otter watching.