Uttar Pradesh is taking a census of otters in its protected areas. The census has begun in the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR).

Otters live on fish and spend much of its time in or close to water bodies. A thriving population of otters means a healthy ecosystem.

India is home to 3 of the 13 species of otters found worldwide. These are :

• Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) – IUCN status: Near Threatened.
• Smooth-coated Otter (Lutra perspicillata) – IUCN status: Vulnerable.
• Small-clawed Otter (Aonyx cinereus) – IUCN status: Vulnerable.