Published: 16th Oct, 2018
Eurasian otter has been recorded historically from the Western Ghats but first photographic and genetic confirmation of its presence have been found.
Context
- Eurasian otter has been recorded historically from the Western Ghats but first photographic and genetic confirmation of its presence have been found.
- Ironically, researchers found the dead otter after a vehicle ran over it near a fragmented rainforest in Tamil Nadu’s Valparai.
About
Eurasian otter
- Out of the three otter species found in India (Western Ghats), Eurasian otter is the least known.
- The Eurasian Otter (lutralutra) is also known as European otter, Eurasian river otter, common otter and Old world otter.
- It is a semi aquatic mammal which is commonly native to Eurasia.
- It has a diet mainly of fish and is strongly territorial.
- Otters are often illegally poached for pets. It is Nearly Threatened.
Distribution
- The species is found mainly across Europe, northern Africa and other south Asian countries.
- Ireland has the highest density of Eurasian Otter.
- In India, it is distributed in the Himalayan foothills, southern Western Ghats and the Central India.
Protection:
- It is protected by the Wildlife Protection Act (1972).
- All 3 species of otters in India are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act and are listed in CITES Appendices.
- Eurasian Otter – CITES Appendix I; WPA Schedule II
- Smooth Coated Otter – CITES Appendix II; WPA Schedule II
- Clawless Otter – CITES Appendix II; WPA Schedule I
Need of the hour:
- There should be detailed surveys and studies to ascertain more about the occurrence of Eurasian Otters in India.
- Otter roadkills — caused by increasing fragmentation of forests and modification of their original habitats — are becoming increasingly common, which is a grave matter of concern.
- The illegal poaching of Eurasian Otters for their pelts should be banned.
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