CONTEXT

• Spotted in Lidder River, Srigufwara (South Kashmir); initially mistaken for a crocodile.
• Identified as a Eurasian otter by wildlife officials through video and CCTV footage.
• Third confirmed sighting in 2024: Previously seen in Gurez Valley and Heerpora (Shopian).

CONCEPT: EURASIAN OTTER BASICS

• Scientific name: Lutra lutra; also called European, common, or Old-World otter.
• Type: Semi-aquatic carnivorous mammal.
• Habitat: Rivers, lakes, wetlands, marshes, swamps, and coastlines.
• Adaptations:
  • Webbed feet, dense water-repellent fur.
  • Ability to close ears and nostrils underwater.
  • Acute senses of sight, smell, and hearing.
• Physical Features:
  • Sleek brown fur with paler underside.
  • Long body, strong tail, short limbs.
  • Solitary and elusive in nature.
• Distribution:
  • Wide global range: Europe, Middle East, North Africa, Russia, China.
  • India: Found in north, northeast, and southern regions.
  • Kashmir (local name: Vuder): Once common, believed extinct for 30 years.

CURRENT

• Ecological Indicator: Return signals potential recovery of aquatic ecosystem.
• Decline Causes:
  • Water pollution.
  • Illegal hunting for fur.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN: Near Threatened.
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule II.
  • CITES: Appendix I.
• Cultural Note:
  • Historically used in Kashmiri folklore to deter children from dangerous waters.