On the occurrence of Eurasian Otter Lutra lutra (Carnivora: Mustelidae) in Neeru stream of Chenab catchment, Jammu & Kashmir, India

Abstract

This communication reports the first photographic record of Eurasian Otter Lutra lutra in a hill stream in Jammu & Kashmir, putting an end to doubts over its presence in the upper Chenab catchment. Three individuals were photographed during a limited camera trap survey conducted in Neeru stream, a left bank tributary of river Chenab during mid-October 2020. We argue that rapid human population influx, infrastructure expansion, and pollution have altered the hydro morphology of Neeru stream, affecting the otter population. This observation calls for more intensive otter surveys in the nearby smaller basins of Neeru, Kalnai, & Sewa and other large tributaries of Chenab River, combining occupancy surveys with camera traps for improved conservation and management of the species in the region.