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Two otter species
spotted in Goa Otter sightings are rare with footage of the small mammal grooming, defecating and resting, even rarer. Wild Otters, a group formed in September last year has been carrying out extensive conservation-oriented research on the shy and elusive mammal in the state. In collaboration with Mhadei wildlife sanctuary, the group has been tracking down and geographically mapping the otter population and studying its behaviour. There are 13 species of otters in the world with five found in Asia. Goa is home to two species—the smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) and Asian small-clawed otter (Lonyx cinereus), both of which feature on the IUCN Red List and given the 'vulnerable' status. In fact the Asian small-clawed otter was documented for the first time in the State in Netravali in March last year by members of the group. The smooth-coated Otter is a freshwater species that has adapted to mangroves and brackish water while the Asian small-clawed otter is mostly found in forest streams. The group has already covered the 873km river length of Goa trying to document the two species. Villagers tell the group that the otter population has dwindled over the years. Using camera traps, the group has managed to capture a rare shot of a family of six otters, two adults and four pups. The group also looks for other signs - grooming sites- where they regularly roll in mud to maintain the insulating capacity of their coat. Wild Otters is also creating awareness about the presence of otters in the state. Borker believes awareness is of utmost importance if the small mammal is to be protected. Many people living with otters in their backyard aren't aware of them. "There's no point trying to protect otters by getting all emotional and without studying their behavior first. We need to have the right conservation strategy and this can only be supported by research. Conservation and research on otters forms the backbone of our work," he says. |
