We are issuing a warning over discarded fishing line after an otter was found dead in Talla reservoir, Tweedsmuir, Biggar.
We were alerted to the otter by a member of the public on 4 June.
The otter was found strangled by fishing line that was tangled around their neck and they were caught in debris.
Scottish SPCA inspector, Jack Marshall, said, “Fishing line can cause life threatening injuries or death to wild animals.
“Unfortunately this otter was dead on arrival as they had been strangled by the fishing line.
“It can take a number of days for wildlife to succumb to an injury like this and sometimes it can be hard to spot wire wrapped around flesh as it may be so tight that it’s hard to see.
“We would urge those who use fishing line, rope, netting or any form of wire to please make sure you take this away with you. It can have a detrimental effect on a number of different animals through becoming tangled or by ingesting it.
“If anyone does find a wild animal trapped in any sort of wire or rope, our advice is not to approach them but to call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
