Illegal net kills otter and salmon on the River Teifi

[Editor]

Environment Agency Wales officers are investigating after an illegally placed net on the River Teifi has killed a male otter and an eight pound hen salmon migrating to spawn.

The net, found in the Newcastle Emlyn area yesterday (Tuesday 18 August) was found as Environmental Crime officers patrolled the area.

As they went to remove the net, they discovered the dead salmon and the otter, which had become entangled in the net and drowned.

They are appealing for any information from people who may have seen something suspicious. If anyone has seen anything they can report it confidentially on 0800 80 70 60.

Illegal netting not only has the potential to harm wild, native species but has the potential to damage salmon and sewin stocks. This can have serious implications for the economy in the area through angling tourism and other fishermen.

Otters are an indicator of good water quality with their numbers on the increase in Welsh rivers.

Lyn Richards, Environment Agency Wales, said:

“This just shows how much damage these illegal nets cause. We are always angered when we find salmon or sewin caught in these illegal nets and killed as we know the impact it has on our native fish stocks. To find an otter killed by one of these nets just makes it worse.

“Poaching in all its forms has a serious effect on local wildlife and the economy. Our officers use information and their know how to target areas like this. We are determined to catch those responsible.

“If you are caught you could face fines of up to £5000 and / or three months imprisonment. We will not hesitate to take action against anyone involved.”