Rediscovery in Uttarakhand
Otter Revival Signals River Health in Nandhaur: The Uttarakhand Forest Department has documented the presence of the Smooth-Coated Otter in Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary. This confirmation highlights improving ecological conditions in the region’s river systems.
Otters are considered bio-indicator species, meaning they survive only in clean and undisturbed freshwater ecosystems. Their presence signals a healthy food chain and minimal pollution levels.
Static GK fact: Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Uttarakhand and forms part of the Terai Arc Landscape, which connects protected areas across India and Nepal.
About Smooth-Coated Otters
The Smooth-Coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) is the largest otter species found in Asia. It is recognized for its smooth, short fur and streamlined body adapted for aquatic life.
It is a highly social mammal, often living and hunting in groups. These otters are strong swimmers and primarily feed on fish, making them important regulators of aquatic biodiversity.
Their habitats include freshwater rivers, lakes, wetlands, estuaries, and even mangrove forests. This wide habitat preference makes them ecologically versatile but still dependent on clean water systems.
Static GK Tip: India is home to three otter species — Smooth-Coated Otter, Eurasian Otter, and Small-Clawed Otter.
Conservation Status and Legal Protection
The species is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, reflecting declining populations due to habitat destruction and pollution. Rapid urbanization and river degradation remain major threats.
In India, it is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides the highest level of legal safeguard. This status places it alongside iconic species like the tiger in terms of protection priority.
Static GK fact: The Wildlife Protection Act was enacted in 1972 to protect wild animals, birds, and plants, and has been amended multiple times to strengthen conservation measures.
Distribution in India
The Smooth-Coated Otter is distributed widely from the Himalayan foothills to southern India. It is commonly found in riverine systems of North India and coastal wetlands.
In the Western Ghats and Northeast India, it co-exists with other otter species. Such overlapping habitats highlight India’s rich biodiversity zones.
Its presence in Uttarakhand reinforces the ecological value of the Terai region, which supports elephants, tigers, and diverse aquatic fauna.
Ecological Importance
As top predators in aquatic ecosystems, otters help maintain fish population balance. Their survival indicates a strong and functional aquatic food web.
The documentation in Nandhaur is therefore not merely a wildlife sighting but an indicator of river ecosystem recovery. Protecting such species ensures long-term freshwater sustainability.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Otter Revival Signals River Health in Nandhaur:
| Topic | Detail |
| Species Name | Smooth-Coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable (IUCN Red List) |
| Legal Status in India | Schedule I, Wildlife Protection Act 1972 |
| Key Habitat | Rivers, lakes, wetlands, estuaries, mangroves |
| Ecological Role | Bio-indicator of clean freshwater ecosystems |
| Location in News | Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand |
| Distinct Feature | Largest Asian otter with smooth short fur |
| Distribution in India | Himalayas to Southern India, Western Ghats, Northeast |
