"Beware otters" reads the illuminated signs installed on the RD918 in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, in the Basque Country. The European otter, a species that almost disappeared, is gradually recolonizing the Barthes de la Nivelle, one of the last wetlands on the Basque coast. But since 2020, several otters have been killed in collisions with motorists, especially on this departmental road.

She crosses the road to feed herself

This is why the county council has installed illuminated signs that should encourage motorists to slow down and be attentive to a possible crossing of mustelids. A system of reflectors that reflects the light rays of the headlights to the shoulder to keep wildlife away from the roadway completes this signage.

"It reproduces and lives on the pond side Errota Zahar (freshwater) and will feed in the Barthes de la Nivelle (saline area), observes the city of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. During its travels, it is led to cross the RD918, especially during high tides. »

This popular otter sector is already integrated into the perimeter of Natura 2000 area and could soon be classified as a sensitive natural area, with the support of the department, for an even stronger protection status.

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