The ongoing problem of otter deaths on the A78 Largs to Skelmorlie road needs further attention.
That is the feeling of Meigle resident Archie Burleigh who has again taken the matter up with Transport Scotland.
And Mr Burleigh has gained support from the International Otter Survival Fund group who are also putting pressure on the road authorities to tackle the killings.
Mr Burleigh said: " I had the occasion to pick up another dead otter this evening on the A78 Largs to Skelmorlie trunk road. The otter had been hit by a vehicle on the north bound carriageway and was lying against the railings. The location was coincidental with the boundary of Knock Castle estate and Quarter Farm; some 150 metres south of the west gates to Knock Castle.
"It is probably close to teens now, the number of times I have picked up dead otters at this precise location. I asked the roads authorities earlier this year if 'Be aware' signage could be deployed in the local area. 
"Transport Scotland was more in favour of providing a physical solution to protect the local otter population by provision of a specifically designed culvert with a running ledge or twin culvert with large diameter for flood water and a smaller diameter at higher invert for the otters: There is a fresh water culvert at this precise point.
"Notwithstanding, this location has been a perennial problem for road flooding associated with heavy rainfall and this could be the way forward to solve both problems. 
"Either way the total inaction on either front is not helping the local population of otters."
Grace Yoxon, director of the International Otter Survival Fund, based on the Isle of Skye, said: "There really seems to be no progress in this matter. I note in an earlier enquiry at the beginning of May that it was proposed that investigations should be completed by spring 2019. This is ridiculous.
"As we approach winter we are heading into the peak time for road casualties and you have already found so many. Something needs to be done as a matter of urgency."
However, Mr Burleigh said he now believes there has been some progress on the matter.
In response, Isla Davidson of Scottish Transerv said: "Earlier this year we undertook an initial study into potential constraints and likely crossing points of otter across the A78 in the area. "This will be developed over the coming months by utilising camera traps to better understand their behaviour in different conditions i.e. high and low water levels. We then plan to use this information to assist in identifying the best feasible solutions to assist their crossing in the long term to prevent injury.
"As part of our efforts to address animal road deaths on the south west trunk road network we consult and share data with a number of wildlife organisations including The International Otter Survival Fund. The IOSF would be a helpful contact for you should you wish further information on wider otter conservation work.
"It would be helpful if people could report your findings each time to us via our website (http://www.scotlandtranserv.co.uk/defect-reporting-form/). Animal roadkill date and location (e.g. grid reference) information is key to our ability to map and monitor deaths on the trunk road network."