In an exciting breakthrough, scientists have confirmed that they have spotted an Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus) in Nepal, making its return.
Many specialists believed that this species had completely vanished from Nepal’s rivers and marshes, as no one had seen it there since 1839.
However, in November 2024, researchers discovered a baby otter in western Nepal’s Dadeldhura District, changing the situation. After 185 years, this discovery provided scientists with conclusive evidence that the species is still present in the area.
The IUCN Otter Specialist Group Bulletin just revealed the discovery. The study team, headed by Mohan Bikram Shrestha and including global partners, considers this a significant advance.
It not only demonstrates the species’ continued existence but also makes it clear that immediate conservation action is necessary to save Nepal’s freshwater habitats, which are increasingly threatened.
Rediscovery of rare otter raises conservation hopes in Nepal
There was more to the discovery than chance. It inspired conservationists nationwide and immediately aroused scientific curiosity. To investigate the area’s river systems and possible otter habitats, researchers, wildlife specialists, and local government officials started working together.
Soon after, preliminary studies confirmed that the species still exists in Nepal, as well as in areas of the eastern Himalayas and several freshwater environments previously believed to be unsuitable for their survival.
For Mohan Bikram Shrestha, a leading researcher on otters and birds in Nepal, this was a moment of triumph. “After years of speculation about its presence in Nepal, we can finally confirm that the small-clawed otter lives on in the country,” Shrestha stated. His work, along with that of international partners, has been crucial in highlighting Nepal’s often overlooked biodiversity.
The rediscovery has now made a more comprehensive scientific mission possible. Assessing the otter’s population size, habitat range, and threats is a top priority for researchers.
The threat of the species going extinct again is still very real because of the mounting pressure from sand mining, infrastructural expansion, deforestation, and water pollution.
In addition to otters, Nepal’s wetland habitats are home to numerous other rare and endangered species, and conservationists hope that this rediscovery will raise awareness and funds to safeguard them.
Restoration plans in motion
Both government agencies and conservation organizations are calling for stronger protection measures after the Asian small-clawed otter’s presence in Nepal was confirmed.
The Nepalese government has pledged to incorporate the species into conservation initiatives and wildlife protection legislation in coordination with international environmental organizations.
Restoring the harmed river ecosystems and making sure the otters have access to safe mating grounds, enough prey, and clean water are major challenges. In light of the rediscovery, Sanjan Thapa, deputy coordinator of the Otter Specialist Group’s Himalayan area, emphasized the need for prompt conservation action.
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is now working on river management initiatives in the Lower Karnali Watershed. In order to safeguard the otter’s future, these programs seek to lessen pollution, regulate illicit fishing, and restore wetland habitats.
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