Smooth-coated otters

Context:

Smooth-coated otters will return to the Delhi Zoo after a 20-year absence, as part of an animal exchange program with the Surat Zoo.

Taxonomy & Conservation Status

Scientific Name:Lutrogaleperspicillata
Genus:Lutrogale – the only extant (living) representative.
IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (VU) due to habitat loss, poaching, and depletion of prey.
CITES Listing: Appendix II – regulated trade.
Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I – highest legal protection in India.

Distribution

Widely found in southern Asia, from India eastwards through Southeast Asia.
Isolated population in the marshes of Iraq.
In India – found in the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra basins, coastal areas, and certain protected wetlands.

Habitat Preferences

Inhabits lowlands, coastal mangroves, peat swamp forests, freshwater wetlands, and large forested rivers.
Adaptable to rice paddies and man-made wetlands.
Builds burrows near water with underwater entrances and chambers above high-water lines.

Physical Characteristics

Behaviour & Ecology

Strong swimmers; adapted for both aquatic and terrestrial movement.
Can travel long distances overland in search of suitable habitat.
Social species – hunts in groups.
Hunting often in V-formation when swimming upstream to catch fish.
Diet: Primarily fish, but also crabs, amphibians, and small aquatic animals.

Threats

Habitat loss due to wetland drainage, dam construction, and conversion to agriculture.
Poaching for fur and pet trade.
Decline in prey species due to overfishing and pollution.
Human–wildlife conflict in aquaculture and fishing areas.

Conservation Measures

Legal protection under national and international laws.
Conservation in protected areas like Kaziranga National Park, Sundarbans, and Chilika Lake.
Awareness campaigns to reduce poaching and promote coexistence with fishing communities.
Wetland restoration projects to secure habitats.