The Maynooth Area Office of KCC have erected otter signs along the Kilcock to Maynooth Road.
Ireland's First Otter Sign was erected to warn passing motorist that they may encounter an otter
moving between the Rye River and the Royal Canal as they forage for
food. The signs were put up following requests from the public and under
advice from the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
There has been a large number of mortalities
on this stretch of road in recent years. These protected species, while
shy, are often on the move at dusk and dawn and may not be seen by
passing cars. Estimated at about 12,000 otters, the current Irish
population is declining. Otters are protected by Irish (Wildlife Acts
1976, 2000), and European law (EU Habitats Directive.)
