Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary

Context: Smooth-coated otters were officially recorded for the first time in Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand, marking a significant conservation milestone.

About Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary:

What it is?

• Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest area forming part of the Terai Arc Landscape, serving as a crucial biodiversity corridor between India and Nepal.

Located in:

• Situated in Nainital district, Uttarakhand.
• Lies between the Gola and Sharda Rivers.
• Connects forests of Ramnagar with Shuklaphanta National Park in Nepal.

History:

• Established in 2012.
• Part of the Shivalik Elephant Reserve (since 2002).
• Recently prescribed by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) as Uttarakhand’s third Tiger Reserve.

Key Features:

• Area: 269.96 sq. km.
• Dominated by Sal forests with over 100 tree species including shisham, bamboo, teak, and chir pine.
• Hosts ~25 mammal species, 250 bird species, 15 reptiles, and 20 fish species.
• Major fauna include tiger, leopard, Asian elephant, and sloth bear.
• Functions as an ecological corridor in the Terai-Bhabar region.

About Smooth-Coated Otter:

What it is?

• The smooth-coated otter is a semi-aquatic mammal and one of the largest otter species in Asia, known for its sleek body and strong swimming ability.

Scientific Name: Lutrogale perspicillata

Conservation Status

• Listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

Habitat

• Found in freshwater rivers, wetlands, mangroves, and estuaries.
• Requires clean water bodies with abundant fish and amphibians.
• Acts as a bio-indicator species, indicating healthy aquatic ecosystems.

Key Characteristics:

• Total length: ~1.3 metres; weight: 7–11 kg: The smooth-coated otter is one of the larger otter species, giving it strength and agility for aquatic hunting.
• Smooth, sleek fur; flattened tail; large webbed paws: These adaptations reduce water resistance and help in fast swimming and efficient underwater movement.
• Strong swimmers; often hunt cooperatively in groups (V-formation): Group hunting improves coordination and increases success in catching fish in flowing waters.
• Sensitive whiskers detect prey movement even in murky waters: Their whiskers act as sensory tools, allowing them to locate prey through vibrations when visibility is poor.
• Primarily fish-eating but occasionally omnivorous: Although fish form the main diet, they may also consume crustaceans or small aquatic animals when available.