Context: Eurasian otter, once an integral part of Kashmir's aquatic ecosystem, was thought to be extinct in the Valley for three decades. However, a rare sighting of the semi-aquatic mammal has now been reported in south Kashmir.
Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Location and species-based questions.
Major Highlights:
- Eurasian Otters have reemerged in the Gurez Valley i.e., 123 km north of Srinagar.
- It represents the first live documentation of species for the last 25 years.
About Eurasian Otters
- Eurasian otter is a semi-aquatic mammal native to Eurasia.
- They have dense and water repellent furs for insulation in cold water.
- Adaptations: Webbed feet for swimming, streamlined body and muscular tail for propulsion.
- Habitat:
- Europe, North America, and some parts of Asia.
- In India, confirmed in Himalayas, Western Ghats, Odisha.
- Prefers clean freshwater ecosystems.
- Carnivorous: Primarily eats fish, amphibians, crustaceans and small mammals.
Conservation Status and Threats
- IUCN status: Near Threatened
Population decline due to:
- Habitat loss (urbanisation, river pollution)
- Poaching (fur trade, conflicts with fishermen)
- Pesticide contamination affecting fish populations
- Climate change impacting freshwater sources.