This clip was filmed using an automatic Infra-Red Trail Camera. It shows one of the Mink Rafts I monitor on the River Cam in Gloucestershire. So far we have not seen any signs of Mink, but as you can see, its turned out to be popular with the local Otter.
Apart from probable scent-marking, the rubbing against the tunnel is at least partly a grooming need as otters need to periodically get dry to maintain their fur waterproofing. When I've watched them in Scotland on the coast they roll and rub themselves dry on seaweed or grass just before curling up for a nap. As this otter didn't re-enter the water (in shot) it might have gone ashore for a nap too.
WildlifeInCloseUp 1 year ago