International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF)

Who We Help, Why We Help & the Difference It Makes

What We Do

We're less of a charity or support group In terms of offering help, however our we offer education and encourage social responsibility.

The International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF) was inspired by observing otters in their natural habitat. Because the otter lives, feeds and plays on land and in the water and is at the peak of the food chain it is an ambassador species to a first class environment. IOSF was set up to protect and help the 13 species of otter worldwide through a combination of compassion and science. We support projects to protect otters, which will also ensure that we have a healthy environment for all species, including our own. IOSF works closely with other organisations to protect otters in the wild and in captivity. In particular we are concerned with the high level of wildlife crime involving otters .

Volunteer

Funding

Otter cubs cost about £1,600 to rear in terms of food, vet bills, etc. They stay with their mothers for 12-15 months so we have to release them at about the same age – if we release them too early they will not survive. This is why the food bills are so high.

We know times are hard for everyone, but if you can spare even a small amount to help the otters we will be very grateful. No amount is too small as it will buy a fish for an otter.

Donations aren't all we need as there are many other ways in which you can help.  See our website for further details

You can also help with our Otter records

Otter sightings

Send us your sightings of otters

Dead otters

Report any dead otters you see

Illegal trade

If you see otter skins or live otters for sale, including over the internet, please give us as much detail as possible – date, time, location, number of skins or live otters, website, etc and if possible include a photo. However, please remember that some traders can be aggressive, so never put yourself at risk.

Send this information to [email protected] or if you would rather remain anonymous use the secure, online whistleblower platform – Wildleaks.

This illegal crime is threatening the survival of otters in some areas and you can help by giving us data.

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