Otterly rare find: Elusive species resurfaces after 25 yrs

Raipur: In another significant finding for Chhattisgarh's wildlife, researchers reported capturing the first photographic evidence in 25 years of the elusive smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) inside the Indravati Tiger Reserve (ITR) in Bijapur district. Two days ago, TOI reported that the three-day butterfly and moth survey at Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary concluded with a significant finding — the Short Banded Sailor, a butterfly species recorded for the first time in the sanctuary. Now the Otter finding, recently published in the IUCN Otter Specialist Group Bulletin, suggests the species' continued presence in the state, with the last official record dating back to 2001."This rediscovery highlights the ecological richness of Indravati's river systems and the need to protect such habitats from human pressures," said lead researcher Suraj M. Locally known as Neer Billi (water cat), the smooth-coated otter is the largest otter species in India and serves as an indicator of a healthy freshwater ecosystem. The research team documented the animals displaying rarely observed behaviour in the wild — swimming, grooming, sun-basking, and even confronting a crocodile. The sightings were reported along a 15-km stretch of the Indravati River, which forms the natural boundary between Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. Researchers said otter groups were observed using both banks of the river, suggesting a wider distribution than previously known. Breakthrough Through Buffalo SurveyThe breakthrough came during a wild buffalo survey when local villagers reported "cat-like" aquatic animals frequently damaging fishing nets. Guided by these accounts, the researchers conducted multiple field visits and captured clear photographs using high-zoom cameras and GPS documentation. Listed As ‘Vulnerable'Despite its ecological importance, the smooth-coated otter is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The study warns that illegal fishing, snaring, and habitat disturbances continue to threaten the species, even in remote forest areas."Otters are apex predators in river ecosystems. Their presence reflects the overall health of aquatic habitats. Protecting them means protecting the rivers themselves," said co-author Moiz Ahmed. With this confirmed record, researchers note that Chhattisgarh now hosts all three otter species found in India — the smooth-coated otter, the Asian small-clawed otter, and the Eurasian otter — underscoring the state's ecological significance in central India. The authors have called for comprehensive surveys across the Indravati and Godavari basins to assess otter populations and reduce human-induced threats. They said strengthening protection measures would ensure the long-term survival of this charismatic species.Indravati Tiger Reserve deputy director Sundeep Balaga told The Times of India that while the species is indeed of a vulnerable kind and sightings have been made in recent years, there is no verified record of a gap of 25 years. "We spotted about five to six individuals last summer. The presence of these species benefits the allied ecosystem," Balaga said.The study was conducted by a team, including Suraj M, Moiz Ahmed, Alok Kumar Sahu, Krishnendu Basak, and Mayank Bagchi, in collaboration with the forest department, offering fresh impetus to aquatic species conservation efforts in the region.