Researchers recorded images of smooth-coated otters at Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary, marking a notable discovery in an area previously thought to be outside the species’ current range.
The footage, captured by trail cameras in May 2024, reveals small groups of these elusive mammals navigating riverbanks and boulder fields—evidence of a previously unconfirmed population within the Uttarakhand region. Conservationists say the find could shift local strategies for wildlife protection, especially in freshwater habitats.
Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in India’s northern state of Uttarakhand, bordering Nepal and the Tibetan plateau. The area, while primarily known for its tiger population, also supports a range of other threatened species. The otter discovery came during a routine tiger survey carried out by a team of researchers using motion-activated cameras. The group was led by Nishant Bhardwaj, Hritik Nautiyal, Harish Guleria, and Bilal Habib.
According to the Journal of Threatened Taxa, which published the findings on August 26, this is the first photographic evidence of smooth-coated otters in the sanctuary, despite the area offering what appears to be suitable habitat.
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First Confirmed Sighting Caught on Camera
The team initially saw one of the otters during a setup mission in March 2024. Hoping for clearer documentation, they installed five trail cameras in locations showing signs of otter activity, such as scat and tracks. The cameras operated over ten days, yielding two important sets of photographs.
The first, dated May 16, shows four smooth-coated otters together near a body of water, appearing to explore the area. The second series, taken five days later, depicts two otters walking between large rocks. These images not only confirm the species’ presence but also provide behavioral insights about their group movement and habitat use.
According to The Kansas City Star, these animals are the largest otter species in Asia and can weigh up to 24 pounds. They often form tight family groups, communicating through vocalizations and hunting together.
The Role of Otters in Freshwater Ecosystems
Beyond being a rare sight, the smooth-coated otters play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. As predators, they feed on a wide range of aquatic life—fish, crabs, frogs, insects, and sometimes birds—helping regulate prey populations. Their presence also implies relatively unpolluted water conditions, as they require clean rivers and streams to thrive.
As reported by The Cool Down, the otters’ return to Nandhaur is a positive sign for the region’s freshwater systems and the people who rely on them. Healthy aquatic ecosystems contribute to cleaner water downstream, support biodiversity, and help stabilize fisheries, all of which benefit nearby human communities.
Researchers noted that little is currently known about otter distribution across Uttarakhand, making this finding a valuable starting point for future studies.
Conservation Implications and Future Monitoring
The discovery raises questions about the current conservation scope in Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary. While the area is managed for large predators like tigers, the presence of smooth-coated otters suggests the need for broader ecological monitoring. Experts emphasize the importance of understanding distribution and population patterns in order to tailor conservation strategies effectively.
The research team recommends more systematic surveys and long-term camera monitoring to track the otters’ range and behavior.
A pair of smooth-coated otters seen at Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary in May 2024 – © Bhardwaj, Nautiyal, Guleria and Habib (2025)
NOTE – This article was originally published in the Indian Defence Review and can be viewed here
