A study conducted by the Department of Zoology and Wildlife Biology of A.V.C. College, Mayiladuthurai, has identified evidence of a significant smooth coated otter population in Mettur dam and Cauvery river stretches of Salem district, prompting researchers to call for the area to be declared a protected freshwater habitat.

The study is being carried out with financial assistance from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department under the guidance of A. Udhayan, director, Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC), Vandalur. It focuses on smooth coated otter population assessment, habitat improvement and conservation measures in Mettur dam and other major freshwater ecosystems.

As part of the field survey, researchers covered the coracle landing areas and adjoining stretches of the Cauvery near Mettur. Local fishermen and residents reported the presence of more than 1,000 otters in the region.

Subsequent field investigations by researcher Arun Raj revealed extensive indirect evidence of otter presence, including spraints (otter droppings) and footprints on rocky outcrops and crevices, indicating that the area supports a thriving otter habitat.

According to M. Bhaskaran, principal investigator of the project, the study is documenting suitable otter habitats, including rivers, reservoirs and other freshwater bodies in the Pannavadi and Cauvery regions of Salem district. Samples of smooth coated otter spraints and footprints are being collected for further analysis to assess the species’ distribution and habitat use.

Mr. Bhaskaran said the study also indicated that otters largely prey on large fish, which has led to conflicts with local fishing communities and poses a growing threat to the species. Human-induced pressures on freshwater ecosystems have further increased the need for habitat protection, he added.

The research team has urged the Tamil Nadu government to notify the Mettur dam and adjoining Cauvery river stretches as a protected freshwater habitat to ensure the long-term conservation of otters and their natural ecosystem.