Berkhamsted otter death could spell worry for new water voles in Hemel Hempstead

The Box Moor Trust is appealing for the public's help in keeping water voles safe in Hemel Hempstead.

Last September, with local American mink numbers at a 20 year low the Box Moor Trust introduced 177 rare water voles to the river and cressbeds in Boxmoor.

Water Voles have been in serious decline, particularly over the last 30 years mainly due to predation by mink.

This year, the Trust has introduced another 200 in Bourne End, Two Waters and Water End in the hope that they will breed and spread all over the area’s canal, lakes and rivers.

The long term hope is that they will eventually spread to join up with endangered remnant populations in the Rickmansworth area.

But, the recent death of an Otter by illegal trapping near Berkhamsted is a real blow for the Trust.

David Kirk, chair of the the Box Moor Trust, said: "Water voles are like chateaubriand steak to herons and, sadly, many of the new arrivals were eaten by these greedy predators but, thankfully, enough have survived to breed and there are now signs that a good number have made their homes.

"There was wonderful co-operation from all the local fishing clubs which helped give many of the voles a safe haven.

"The project could not have been completed without the help of our band of dedicated volunteers.

"A pair of otters set up home locally three years ago and did the Trust a big favour by chasing away the American mink.

"Although the otter is a predator itself, they have lived side by side with water voles for thousands of years but, luckily, they hate mink. It was the Mink that exterminated local water voles between 1970 and 1990.

"We now know of the deaths of two local otters so there is a risk that mink could return. If you see any Mink locally can you please inform the Trust on 01442 253300.

"Water voles are smaller and dumpier than rats. They have blunt faces, dark, hairy tails that are 75 per cent of their body length and tiny concealed ears.

"Water voles grow to 36 centimetres including tail and rats grow to 55 centimetres.

"If you see one swimming or eating reeds near the river or canal bank then do please give as a ring because they are very shy creatures and it is not easy to monitor them.

"There is never a day without news of the dire future for many wildlife species.

"Re - introductions are always risky but if a sustainable population of these iconic creatures does emerge in a year or two it will be be wonderful evidence that with effort the decline in our flora and fauna can be reversed."

Voting forms for new Box Moor Trust Trustees will arrive on your mat soon. All adults in Hemel Hempstead and Bovingdon can vote.

Please use your vote and ask for extra ballot papers if there is more than one adult in the house. For more details visit the Trust Website - boxmoortrust.org.uk.