Today is International Otter Awareness Day and it seems a good opportunity to share some of our work with otters in the south of Portugal!

The otter plays an important role in ecosystems as is it at the top of the food chain, but it is endangered in many countries. This year, for the first time, A ROCHA Portugal conducted a study about the presence of the Eurasian otter Lutra lutra in Ria de Alvor. We found many signs of their presence all over the area, such as their spraints and footprints. Now we have the first photos (taken at night).

This motivates us to elaborate the study more in the nearby future:

  • What is the size of the local population?
  • What factors affect otter distribution?
  • How can we help to protect this important species?

The otter’s presence in Ria de Alvor gives us a good reason to celebrate because it is an indication of good ecosystem quality. We are very happy!