In News:

After being presumed extinct in the Kashmir Valley for nearly three decades, the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) has been spotted again in the Lidder River in Srigufwara, South Kashmir. This rare sighting rekindles hope for the revival of the Valley’s aquatic biodiversity.

About Eurasian Otter:

• Common Names: Eurasian otter, European otter, Common otter, Old-World otter
• Local Name in Kashmir: Vuder
• Type: Semi-aquatic carnivorous mammal
• Distribution:
  • Widely spread across Europe, the Middle East, Northern Africa, and Asia (from Eastern Russia to China).
  • In India, found in northern, northeastern, and southern regions.
  • In Kashmir, historically abundant in Dal Lake, Dachigam streams, Rambiara stream, and the Lidder River.

Habitat & Features:

• Habitat:
  • Occupies diverse freshwater and coastal ecosystems—lakes, rivers, marshes, swamp forests, and mountain streams.
  • In the Indian subcontinent, prefers cold hill and mountain waters.
• Physical Traits & Adaptations:
  • Sleek brown fur (lighter underneath), long streamlined body, short legs, and thick tail.
  • Aquatic adaptations:
    • Webbed feet
    • Ability to close ears and nostrils underwater
    • Dense fur trapping air for insulation
  • Excellent vision, hearing, and olfactory senses.
• Behavior: Elusive, solitary, and primarily nocturnal.

Conservation Concerns:

• Primary Threats:
  • Water pollution degrading habitats
  • Hunting for fur, historically significant in Kashmir
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN Red List: Near Threatened
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India): Schedule II
  • CITES: Appendix I