Mayiladuthurai college study identifies major otter habitat in Mettur region
Researchers from A.V.C. College have identified a significant population of smooth-coated otters in the Mettur dam and Cauvery river regions. The team is urging the Tamil Nadu government to designate the area as a protected freshwater habitat to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
Why it matters
Protecting this habitat is crucial for the survival of the smooth-coated otter and for managing the ecological balance in the Cauvery river ecosystem.
A study conducted by the Department of Zoology and Wildlife Biology of A.V.C. College, Mayiladuthurai, has identified evidence of a significant smooth coated otter population in Mettur dam and Cauvery river stretches of Salem district, prompting researchers to call for the area to be declared a protected freshwater habitat.
The study is being carried out with financial assistance from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department under the guidance of A. Udhayan, director, Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC), Vandalur. It focuses on smooth coated otter population assessment, habitat improvement and conservation measures in Mettur dam and other major freshwater ecosystems.
As part of the field survey, researchers covered the coracle landing areas and adjoining stretches of the Cauvery near Mettur. Local fishermen and residents reported the presence of more than 1,000 otters in the region.
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