Baseline data on otter occupancy
Surveys were carried out across Goa covering 873 km of perennial river length. Estimated proportion of rivers occupied by otters based on all signs was 75.38 percent and 44.62 percentbased on recent signs.
Distribution and habitat preference of Smooth-coated otters
Smooth-coated otters were found in fresh as well as brackish water. Majority of Smooth-coated otter presence was found in mangroves below the altitude of 25 meters and outside protected areas. This highlights the need to integrate management of modified land uses with the management of protected areas in the landscape. The perception and the attitudes of the villagers from otter habitats are important for their secure future.
Distribution and habitat preference of Asian Small-clawed otters
Asian Small-clawed Otters were found only in fresh water. Flowing shallow forest streams were preferred by them. Stream depth of 0.2 to o.4 meters was preferred by Asian Small-clawed otters. Majority of the population was found inside the protected areas.
Sympatry between Asian Small-clawed and Smooth-coated otters
Asian Small-clawed Otter and Smooth-coated Otter were both recorded at the same by the same camera trap. This is the first photographic evidence of sympatry in the world.
Otter Conservation priority areas digitally mapped
We have mapped conservation priority areas giving clarity on where the conservation action needs to be focused. This project has laid the foundation for long term otter conservation in Goa. Follow up otter conservation projects have already commenced focusing on otter conservation priority areas.