WILDLIFE watchers along one of Edinburgh’s most picturesque and nature-filled urban rivers have been warned that unlicensed “bush cameras” could disturb breeding otters.
The warning follows a “significant increase” in the use of wildlife trail cameras along the Water of Leith, which runs through the capital.
At some locations close to otter holts with kits present, there were found to be several cameras, with others thought to be focusing on badgers’ setts.
The Water of Leith Conservation Trust (WoLCT), which protects the river and its wildlife, said it had received concerns “from multiple sources” about unlicensed cameras and their potential to cause disturbance to protected species.
Exact locations have not been revealed but include spots between the Trust’s visitor centre in Slateford and Dean Village, the scenic former milling settlement now a tourist hotspot just a few minutes walk from the city centre.
The WoLCT has now spoken with City of Edinburgh Council, which owns much of the land through which the river runs, Police Scotland and NatureScot, the body responsible for issuing licences for cameras in appropriate locations.
The Trust said: “We absolutely understand the interest. This is a fantastic urban river, and many people want to connect with and learn more about the wildlife that lives here.
“Trail cameras can be a valuable tool when used responsibly. But wildlife must always come first In sensitive areas, particularly where otters and badgers are present.
“Poorly placed or frequently checked cameras can cause disturbance. This is especially important during breeding periods.”
The Trust said its preferred approach to the problem was through education to promote awareness and encourage responsible behaviour.
But they warned irresponsible and illegal activities will be reported to Police Scotland, “particularly if it is thought that wildlife crime offences are being committed”.
Cameras require landowner permission, they say, while a licence from NatureScot is required within 30 metres of a non-breeding otter holt or badger’s sett, or within 200 metres of a breeding otter holt.
The Trust said: “These animals are sensitive to disturbance, and even small changes in behaviour, such as avoiding key resting or feeding areas, can have wider impacts.”
Helen Brown, chief executive of the WoLCT, added: “The massive proliferation of cameras that seems to have happened this spring has been a cause for concern.
“We are worried particularly about the locations where they are. There’s already quite a lot of disturbance to breeding sites, particularly with dogs going in and out of the river.
“We’re hoping that raising awareness and saying to people that it’s not appropriate to have multiple cameras in the same spaces and go back and visit them every day, will have the desired effect.
“The otters and the badgers need all the support they can get.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of concerns relating to trail cameras at the Water of Leith in Edinburgh and we are liaising with local partners.
“We encourage responsible use of trail cameras in order to prevent causing disturbance to protected species.”
City of Edinburgh Council Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “Whilst we want everyone to be able to enjoy the wonderful wildlife we have on the Water of Leith, this needs to be done in a responsible way.
“We’ll continue to work alongside the Trust and our other partners to encourage this.”
The Water of Leith is the main river flowing through Edinburgh to the port of Leith, and features along its route one of the city’s most popular scenic pathways used by thousands of walkers, cyclists and nature lovers.
It runs through areas including Balerno, Roseburn, Dean Village, Stockbridge, Inverleith, Canonmills and on to Leith where it flows into the sea via the Firth of Forth.
A NatureScot spokesperson said: “While we all love to watch wildlife, it’s important we do this responsibly and within the law.
“Wild animals and birds are sensitive to disturbance, particularly when near breeding sites or resting places. Installing a trail camera could potentially cause disturbance or prevent animals and birds from using an area, which in some cases is illegal and can attract hefty fines.”
