Eurasian Otter Sighted Again in Kashmir’s Lidder River
Why in the news
The Eurasian otter has been recorded again in Kashmir’s Lidder River after nearly three decades. It had been regarded as extinct in the region, so the sighting is being read as a good sign for river health.
Key facts
- Species: Eurasian otter, a semi-aquatic carnivorous mammal; local name Vuder.
- Gap in records: about 25-30 years.
- Past range in Kashmir included Dachigam, tributaries of Dal Lake, Rambiara stream and the Lidder river near Pahalgam.
- The otter needs clean freshwater such as rivers, lakes, streams and wetlands.
| Listing | Status |
|---|---|
| IUCN Red List | Near Threatened |
| Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 | Schedule II |
| CITES | Appendix I |
About the species
The otter is a keystone species of river ecosystems. Because it depends on unpolluted water, its return suggests that water quality in Kashmir’s river systems may be improving.
Exam angle
- Know the local name Vuder and the river Lidder.
- Remember the protection levels: Near Threatened, Schedule II, CITES Appendix I.
- Keystone and indicator species are favourite environment concepts for UPSC and State PSC.