Why in News?
The Eurasian otter, feared extinct in Kashmir for nearly 30 years, was recently sighted in South Kashmir’s Lidder River, reviving hopes for its comeback and aquatic ecosystem restoration.
Description:
- Species & Conservation Status: The Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra), once thought extinct in Kashmir, has been globally classified as ‘Near Threatened’ by the IUCN.
- Recent Sighting: After nearly 25–30 years, the Eurasian otter was spotted in the Lidder River in Srigufwara, South Kashmir. Earlier sightings in 2025 were also reported from Gurez Valley and Heerpora in Shopian district.
- Ecological Role: The Eurasian otter is a key predator in aquatic ecosystems, feeding primarily on fish. It plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance in freshwater habitats.
- Threats to Survival: Pollution of water bodies, especially with pesticides, and declining fish populations are major threats. This pollution reduces the primary food source for otters.
- Distribution & Behavior: Eurasian otters are found in Asia, northern Africa, and Europe. They are territorial, grow up to 10 kg, can swim up to 10 km/hr, and dive to depths of 20 metres, staying submerged for minutes.
https://www.pressreader.com/india/the-indian-express/20250612/281526527012030
La Excellence IAS Academy, the best IAS coaching in Hyderabad, known for delivering quality content and conceptual clarity for UPSC 2025 preparation.
FOLLOW US ON:
◉ Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@CivilsPrepTeam
◉ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaExcellenceIAS
◉ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laexcellenceiasacademy/
GET IN TOUCH:
Contact us at info@laex.in, https://laex.in/contact-us/
or Call us @ +91 9052 29 2929, +91 9052 99 2929, +91 9154 24 2140
OUR BRANCHES:
Head Office: H No: 1-10-225A, Beside AEVA Fertility Center, Ashok Nagar Extension, VV Giri Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Hyderabad, 500020
Madhapur: Flat no: 301, survey no 58-60, Guttala begumpet Madhapur metro pillar : 1524, Rangareddy Hyderabad, Telangana 500081
Bangalore: Plot No: 99, 2nd floor, 80 Feet Road, Beside Poorvika Mobiles, Chandra Layout, Attiguppe, Near Vijaya Nagara, Bengaluru, 560040
