IUCN SSC-OSG Certified Specialised Training Course in Otter Research & Conservation


Dates: 13th Dec to 17th Dec 2018

Otter Ecology & Research Methods
Understand Smooth-coated otter and Asian small-clawed otter ecology
Exploring the mangrove forests in search of Smooth-coated otters
Insight into otter behavior and adaptation capabilities
Understand habitat parameters essential for otter survival
Understand threats faced by otters
Identifying signs of otters (grooming, latrine sites, tracks, dens) and where you can find them
GPS usage and digital mapping of otter signs, habitat and threats
Importance of GPS devices in wildlife research and conservation
Participants will learn how to use a GPS device effectively in their research project, mark otter signs and threat locations
Import the field data from a GPS device into Google Earth and GIS software for data interpretation
Represent the threats faced by otters digitally to strengthen otter conservation projects
Map otter habitats with conservation priority in your area of work


Camera Trapping Otters
To select the camera trap model based on project requirement and available funding
Effectively using camera traps to record otter images and videos
Camera trap setting, using video mode, analyzing audio-visual data
Best practices to produce good camera trapping results
Using camera traps to study otter behavior, family size and group composition
Participate in ongoing projects at WILD OTTERS
Join the researchers at WILD OTTERS during their ongoing project work
Hands on training on field work, using GPS device, data sheets
Importing the data collected during field work into the computer and interpreting results
Hands on training in camera trapping; checking the camera traps set in the field by WILD OTTERS
Analyzing some camera trap data recorded by WILD OTTERS for hands on learning
Insights into the community work to ensure long-term conservation success.
Why conservation research is important


Otter Conservation in Action
Participants will be empowered to identify otter habitats and conduct surveys to establish otter presence.
You will learn to create simple projects with conservation benefit.
Individual/team projects on otters executed with funding from grants
Doing pilot surveys to determine presence and conservation status - simple surveys producing good results
Participants will also learn about community work with tips on how to engage with fishermen to ensure long term conservation success
Good reporting practices
Location, Course Fee
Location: Wild Otters field base, Chorao Island, Goa
Course Fee: ₹ 11000 (includes accommodation, food and field travel)
To register contact Kshitij Garg - [email protected]
Certificate will be provided after the completion of the course.
Note : This is a specialised course and participants are expected to atleast have a basic knowledge about Otters (different otter species and those found in Asia). They should acquaint themselves with the aforesaid if not already familiar.