Smooth Coated Otter

Smooth Coated Otter Latest News

A recent study has identified evidence of a significant smooth coated otter population in Mettur dam and Cauvery River stretches of Salem district which prompted researchers to call for the area to be declared a protected freshwater habitat.

About Smooth Coated Otter

• It is a species of otter, the only extant representative of the genus Lutrogale. 
• Appearance: It has rounder head, prominent naked noses, and flattened tails, webbed feet and strong dexterous paws that are armed with sharp claws.
• Distribution: They live in southern and Southeast Asia, China, and India, and in Iraq there is a small population.
• Habitat: It is mostly found in lowlands, coastal mangrove forests, peat swamp forests, freshwater wetlands, large forested rivers, lakes, and rice paddies.
• This species is equally comfortable on land and can travel long distances overland in search of suitable habitat. 
• Features of Smooth-coated Otters
  • They are the largest otter in Southeast Asia.
  • The fur of this species is smoother and shorter than that of other otters.
  • The fur is light to dark brown dorsally and light brown to almost gray ventrally.
  • They have short, tightly packed under fur and longer, water-repellant guard hairs.
  • They are strong swimmers and hunt in groups. When fishing, they travel in a V-formation going upstream.
• Threats:  Loss of habitat, habitat degradation due to water pollution from fertilizers and pesticides and poaching.
• Conservation Status
  • IUCN: Vulnerable

Source: TH

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