The Dutch state has been told by the appeal court in The Hague to tackle 21 traffic blackspots and make them safer for otters, news agency ANP says on Tuesday.

The Netherlands has a population of some 120 otters but 31 have been killed by cars this year alone. Campaigners say the number of deaths could be reduced by using pipes and runways to help otters across busy roads more safely.

Last year, a lower court in The Hague ruled in favour of animal protection groups who took legal action against the state for failing to ensure otters’ safety.

The economic affairs ministry decided to appeal but the appeal court has also now found in campaigners’ favour. The state has been given until November 2015 to tackle the most serious hazards.