The Isle of Mull, off the west coast of Scotland, is home to one of the greatest concentration of Eurasian otters in the United Kingdom making it a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. With over 300 miles of wild coastline some of which is accessible by car and occupied by otters, it is a perfect place to watch and photograph these stunning mammals (if you can find them).

These beautiful and charismatic balls of fur are a member of the Mustelidae family. Like all mustelids, otters have a keen sense of smell and hearing. This makes them tricky to get within a good photographic distance without disturbing them. However with the right fieldcraft and a little patience it’s possible to get photos and have an exhilarating wildlife experience.

They may appear cute and fluffy but they’re savage apex predators with a powerful crushing bite. The Eurasian is often found in fresh water but on the Isle of Mull they have adapted to a coastal life and hunt their main source of food in the sea lochs, eating a vast array of fish and crustaceans.

The Isle of Mull is a very addictive destination to visit and never fails to deliver even when the heavens open and you get completely soaked. The views, the smells and of course the wildlife make it a very relaxing place. When I’m sat waiting for the ferry back to the mainland I find myself wishing I didn’t have to leave. Major highlights for me are watching otters care for their young, bringing in all manner of prey to shore to feast on, time spent watching them groom themselves, and finally, seeing them enjoy a well earned rest in amongst the seaweed.