Whilst most people are worrying about where they can buy bog roll during the coronavirus lockdown, 83-year-old John Aeberhard of Steeple Ashton has taken the time to contact the Wiltshire Times to “warn other fishpond owners to beware” about the threat of otters.
Manor house owner Mr Aeberhard, previously the protector of 30 goldfish, koi and other carp, told the paper’s reporter, one John Baker, of how 22 of them were “killed in raids on his pond.” He remarked: “I and my grandchildren are very upset, as the fish all had names.”
At first, Aeberhard blamed a heron – of which he’s previously shockingly admitted to catching two in “heron wires installed above and the perimeter of the pond” – but when his gardener suggested “it could have been otters,” the pensioner decided to install electric wires.
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Describing these carnivorous mammals as “in reality vicious fish killers,” Mr Aeberhard plainly will be leading the way in calling to eliminate these beautiful creatures. Thankfully British law still protects these them and on the government’s guidance website for clarity, we point this ‘Angry Person In A Local Newspaper’ to the paragraph that reads: “You’re breaking the law if you capture, kill, disturb or injure otters.” He should also be made aware: “If you’re found guilty of an offence you could get an unlimited fine and up to 6 months in prison.”
Now, Mr Aeberhard, please be civil and leave the descendants of Henry Williamson’s ‘Tarka’ alone. And whilst you’re at it also, leave the herons be as well.
Facebook: @TheSteepleTimes
Readers have their say
9 comments
What a stupid man. Why did he not put a net over his pond in the first place? Otters are rightly protected and this foolish man should be ashamed of himself for getting herons caught up in nets. He reminds me of an older version of the fox slayer Jolyon Maugham and like him, he should be ashamed of his antics.
Pesky creatures!!!!!!!!!! If they came near my fish pond — I’d club the buggers to death!!!!!!!!!!!! Evil personified — fish killing swines —- DO NOT SEND ANY DOWN UNDER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Well done Mr Aeberhard!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
“Rod” you a nutcase ? you sound like it .??
He is opening himself up to being reported to the RSPCA with his admission that he has installed electric wires that could harm otters.
This man deserves to be prosecuted. He has admitted to snaring herons and now he’s set up equipment that he wishes to electrocute otters. Sick.
This man should be reported to the RSPCA. Setting traps for animals only doing what is natural to them. Horrific!
This old man should be ashamed of himself
This mentally ill geriatric bloke needs help. Put him in a safe space. Seriously – hurting otters. What is wrong with this half-cut lunatic?
No just cruel . It needs someone to spy on him . to protect the otters .?