Distribution, habitat use and conservation status of Smooth-coated Otter Lutrogale perspicillata along the Cauvery and Kabini rivers, Karnataka, India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.9692.17.6.27131-27140Keywords:
Citizen science, conflict mitigation, dynamite fishing, freshwater ecosystem, habitat assessment, human-wildlife interactions, otter adaptability, river conservation, sand mining, volunteer surveysAbstract
We documented the distribution and habitat use of the Smooth-coated Otter Lutrogale perspicillata along the Cauvery and Kabini rivers in Karnataka, India. In November–December 2024, we conducted systematic surveys covering approximately 80–100 km of each river using trained volunteer teams. Data collection included direct sightings and indirect signs (spraints, tracks, and holts). The Cauvery survey yielded 68 observations, including 21 direct sightings totalling 76 individual otters (mean group size = 3.3). The Kabini survey documented 42 observations, including 12 direct sightings totalling 39 individuals (mean group size = 2.8). Statistical analyses revealed no significant difference in otter presence between areas with and without fishing activity (p = 0.428), challenging prior assumptions about human-otter conflict. Areas with multiple human activities maintained substantial otter presence, with 44.4% of holts found in areas with three different types of human activity.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Allison Amavisca, Raghunath Belur, Sugandhi Gadadhar
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