Time out at Tamar Otter Sanctuary

I thought it was high time I got a photo of an otter considering my site, the North Devon Focus is all about the coast and countryside around Bideford Bay and the Torridge River which of course is most famous for being the location for Henry Williamson's novel "Tarka the Otter". Henry Williamson was inspired to write the novel when living in Georgeham a tiny village near Croyde Bay, now famous for it's glorious sandy beach and surfing. I know it's cheating but Otters are elusive and in all the years I have lived in North Devon I have never seen one on the river, so I headed out to see them up close at the Tamar Otter Sanctuary which is located at North Petherwin, Cornwall just over the Devon border. The centre is in a beautiful location and includes landscaped ponds in varying sizes for both British and Asian Short Clawed Otters. There are waterfowl lakes, owl aviaries, a nature walk and woodland walk. The most tranquil place was a spot by the old Quarry and waterfall within the woodland enclosure where Fallow Deer and Wallabies and smaller critters roam the grounds. Although I was looking forward to getting shots of the otters I was also delighted by the number and varied species of owls and waterfowl, many with tiny fluffy babies. The spectacular peacocks paraded around us in true carnival style. I shall be including a focus on the visit and more pictures on my main web site so check back for updates. Photos: Copyright Brett and Pat Adams