Police are appealing for information following an incident in which an air weapon is believed to have been used to deliberately harm an otter—an animal protected under UK and European law.

The injured otter was recovered from the Buxton area near Aylsham on Wednesday 28th of May. Due to the nature of the injuries and the animal’s mobility, it is possible the otter may have travelled some distance before being discovered. Officers are therefore appealing for any information from the Buxton area and surrounding locations that may assist in identifying those responsible.

Under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, it is a criminal offence to deliberately injure or kill any wild animal belonging to a European Protected Species, including otters.

Tragically, the otter had to be euthanised on welfare grounds due to the severity of its injuries.

PC Chris Shelley from Norfolk Police said:

“This is a deeply upsetting incident involving a protected species. We are urging anyone who may have seen suspicious activity involving air weapons, slingshots, or similar devices in the area to come forward.”

The use of air weapons and similar devices against wildlife is a growing concern nationally. A dedicated police operation—Operation Lakeshot—has been launched to better understand and tackle this cruel and often illegal activity.

Anyone with information is urged to contact PC Chris Shelley via email at Christopher.shelley@norfolk.police.uk, quoting incident number 36/36976/25. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.