Why is it in the news?
- Recently, the Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) was spotted for the first time in the state of Kerala, at the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary in Idukki.
About Eurasian Otter
- A semi-aquatic carnivorous mammal.
- Displays shy and nocturnal behaviour, often active during nighttime.
- Flourishes in a range of aquatic environments, encompassing highland and lowland lakes, rivers, streams, marshes, swamp forests, and coastal areas.
- Classified as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN list, signalling a species at risk of becoming endangered.
- Holds legal protection in India as it is listed under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.
- Recognized internationally under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
- Kerala is home to three distinct otter species, with the Eurasian Otter being one of them. The other two are the Smooth-coated Otter and the Small-clawed Otter.
| About Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
· Situated in the Idukki District of Kerala. · Occupies a significant portion of the protected forests in the Annamalai hills, sharing borders with Tamil Nadu. · Diverse landscape characterized by rocky terrains, hillocks, and valleys. · Shares boundaries with the Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary to the East and the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary to the North. · Encompasses varied ecosystems, including dry deciduous forests, wet grasslands, high sholas, dry thorny scrub forests, and riparian forests. · Major rivers flowing through the sanctuary include Chinnar and Pambar. · Boasts a rich biodiversity with around 1000 species of flowering plants, including rare and unique species such as Elaeocarpus recurvatus, Arabica, Acacia leucophloea, Santalum album, and Neelakurinji. · Provides a habitat for endangered species like the Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Gaur, Rusty-Spotty Cat, Sambar, Nilgiri Tahr, Bonnet Macaques, Tufted Grey Langur, Spotted Deer, and more. · A diversity of bird species, including Black Eagle, Yellow-throated Bulbuls, Grey Heron, Serpent Eagle, Little Egret, etc. · Abundance of butterflies, fishes, reptiles, and various insects. · Notably, the sanctuary serves as the only rehabilitation centre for the Indian Star Tortoise in India. |
