3-039-103 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The months: March, 1871. 'What does the otter care about wind or weather? The only thing that concerns him is the presence of the fish; if they are only to be found in the river he can always get his food at any time he chooses. He is not ignorant of the favourite resort of the salmon...On this very March morning he has already enjoyed some sport. Dropping into the water almost without moving the surface, he dives deep below the rusty-hued water, and with the greatest facility has chased and caught his finny victim; then up pops his head, his captive in his jaws, and he makes leisurely for land. He has a particular stone where he always enjoys his dinner. What an affectionate hug he gives his prey as he fixes his teeth in its crimson flesh! The otter is a most fastidious feeder, and will often leave the fish after taking only one bite. He seems to enjoy the sport for sport's sake, catching several more fish than he can eat. The otter, with sleek coat and sprightly form, is a bright and lively animal in appearance; but his poaching propensities doom him to destruction; and we expect that, some day or other, he will be classed with the beaver, as a former inhabitant of our island'. From "Illustrated London News", 1871.