Upland Otter

The course water takes from these little moorland pools can be followed as it flows, gathering pace with run-off from other ponds, until it reaches the many streams and rivers meandering through the valleys and dale bottoms of the North York Moors National Park.

Along the banks of these becks and waterways, and often hidden by thick vegetation, are signs of otter – spraint and footprints.

I think of these otters exploring the quieter places upstream, and further up to the originating pools of peaty moorland water – here moss and rush make comfortable hidden resting spots and privacy for grooming and play.  Day-beds are formed under the protective heather clumps.

Upland Otter carved in Yorkstone – 17″ x 9″ x 7″

Upland Otter sculpture is featured in the Autumn/Winter Collection at Norton Way Gallery