Eurasian Otter

Eurasian Otter 

Context: In a significant milestone for India, researchers radio-tagged a Eurasian otter in the Satpura Tiger Reserve (STR) located in Narmadapuram district, Madhya Pradesh.

Significance of the Radio-collar:
• The radio-collar study aims to gather detailed data on the home ranges, movement patterns, activity, and habitat preferences of Eurasian otters within the landscape.
• This study is essential for comprehending and mitigating the intricate connections between climate change, forests, freshwater availability, and biodiversity.
• Monitoring species such as the Eurasian otter is crucial for evaluating the overall health and resilience of aquatic ecosystems.

Satpura Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
• Satpura is characterized by rugged terrain in central India, featuring steep mountains and deep gorges.
• The vegetation within the reserve primarily consists of moist deciduous forest.
• Located in the Narmadapuram district of Madhya Pradesh, the Satpura Tiger Reserve comprises Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary, Satpura National Park, and Bori Wildlife Sanctuary.
• The reserve boasts a rich diversity of ethno-medicinal flora and fauna.
• Flora: The flora includes prominent species such as teak (Tectona grandis), sal (Shorea robusta), and representatives of northern Himalayan genera like Hypericum, Rubus, Berberis, and Pteridium.
• Fauna: In addition to otters, the reserve is home to various species including the Indian skimmer, blackbellied tern, curlew sandpiper, marsh crocodile, and diverse fishes. Large carnivores such as tiger, leopard,wild dog, and jackal, as well as small carnivores like smooth-coated otter and pangolin, are found here. Arboreal mammals include the Indian giant squirrel (Ratufa indica) and Indian flying squirrel (Petaurista petaurista). Major ungulates and primates such as sambar, chital, gaur, and langur are dependent on the forest streams and rivers within the reserve.