Mink in Nourthumberland

[hebejebee]

i hadn`t seen a mink for about 10 years and had heard they were getting scarce, unfortunately i came across one yesterday whilst birdwatching in a local woods, do mink sightings have to be reported to anyone?

[FungiJus]

Hi hebejebee.

I saw a mink by the river Ouzel in MK last year and reported that to the Environment Agency. Although they didn't act immediately, they were interested in the report because it helps decision making regarding possible trapping activity. Especially true of course if there are water voles around where you are.

I'd report it to your local EA rep.

Cheers.
J.

[vole-woman]

And to your local Wildlife Trust, soon as possible.

I heard you're also supposed to report otter sightings, and even otter and mink road killl - is that right?

[FungiJus]

Funnily enough I was down at the same spot today collecting my crayfish trap and there were large piles of spraints. I gave them a sniff and, judging by the description of mink spraints in the reference section, they were definitely mink! (two introduced species in the same stretch of river ).

I shall report the find, although I don't know the guidance for reporting otters or roadkill VW. Seems to make sense though.

[shirl]

I think the Northumberland Wildlife Trust would be more than interested in finding out about your sightings, I know there are only a couple of sites where water voles have been found so it does make it very important that the trust know where mink are.

Shirl