For years, tales of otters in Kashmir were just memories. Children were once warned about them near rivers, but no one had seen one in decades. That changed recently when a rare creature reappeared in South Kashmir’s waters, stirring quiet excitement among locals and wildlife experts.
Sightings Confirm Otter's Return
In the Lidder River at Srigufwara, villagers spotted a strange animal. At first, many believed it was a crocodile. But videos sent to wildlife officials revealed something unexpected. The animal was confirmed as a Eurasian otter, known locally as Vuder.
Suhail Ahmad Wagay, Wildlife Warden for South Kashmir, said camera traps helped confirm the sighting. The otter was captured on CCTV in several locations. The Eurasian otter is listed as ‘near threatened’ by the IUCN.
Once Thought Extinct in the Valley
Otters were once common in Kashmir’s lakes and rivers. Historical records mention sightings in Dachigam, Rambiara stream, and Dal Lake’s tributaries. But for the past 25 to 30 years, they have vanished from local waters. Many believed they were extinct in the region.
Experts link the decline to water pollution and fur hunting. These semi-aquatic mammals rely on clean rivers for survival. As pollution increased, their numbers fell sharply.
More Sightings Offer Hope
This year, the otter has been seen three times. In May, one appeared in Gurez Valley. Later, another was spotted in Heerpora, Shopian district. Now, with the recent sighting in Lidder, hope grows for their return.
Wildlife officials are encouraged by these signs. They believe the otter’s presence could signal a step toward restoring Kashmir’s aquatic life. With continued monitoring and awareness, the otters may yet reclaim their old home.
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