Otters may be extremely endearing, but after increased sightings along the Western Cape’s shores and water bodies, wildlife organisations are sending a strong reminder that these animals are near threatened, and urge the public to please keep their distance.
Picture: Flickr Commons/ Arthur Chapman
This is according to a public announcement from the Humane Society International/ Africa (HSI), who together with the Two Ocean’s Aquarium, the IUCN, the African Otter Network group amongst others, have been monitoring otters and hope to increase awareness about how the public can peacefully coexist with them.
HSI/Africa Director, Audrey Delsink commented: ‘It is wonderful to see precious wildlife enjoying our beautiful shores, however, otters are wild animals and we urge the public to keep a respectful distance. Never attempt to touch or pick up otters as they may defend themselves and their young. We can all play a part in protecting this endearing species so we encourage the public to live harmoniously alongside them, keep visits to waterways litter-free, and give these animals space.’
The African clawless otter is one of 13 otter species, widely distributed throughout South Africa. They are listed as near threatened on the IUCN red list where their major threats include loss of habitat, disturbance and pollution.
Picture: David DesRochers
Nicci Wright, wildlife specialist for HSI/Africa and member of the African Otter Advisory Group and the IUCN SSC Otter Specialist Group commented warned that due to increasing development, these animals are more habituated to people.
‘However, otters are apex predators and will defend themselves and their territories if they feel threatened by people getting too close or dogs off-leash, especially if they are protecting dependent pups,’ Wright said. ‘If you have the privilege of seeing otters in the wild, remember to stay back and give them their space. We can coexist in our shared spaces by respecting each other and understanding the otters’ needs.’
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