IUCN/SCC Otter Specialist Group Bulletin
© IUCN/SCC Otter Specialist Group

Volume 13 Issue 2 Pages 56 - 98 (October 1996)

Abstracts

Food Availability versus Food Utilization by Otters (Lutra lutra L.) in the Oberlausitz Pondland in Saxony, Eastern Germany
Pages 58 - 70  (Article)
Liana Geidezis
Abstract
Feeding ecology of otters Lutra lutra in the Oberlausitz carp-pond area in Saxony, Germany, was studied between June 1994 and June 1995. 359 spraints were collected and analysed. Prey-fish availability was estimated by pond-stock data and electrofishing. The aim of the study was to investigate seasonal prey availability versus prey utilization by otters in the pondland. Otters are specialized feeders on fish throughout the year. They do not always feed on the most abundant prey (fish) but select in a special manner. Probably behaviour, distribution and/or nutrient value of the potential prey influences the otter’s choice.
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The Current Status and Distribution of the Otter Lutra lutra L., 1758 in Serbia and Montenegro
Pages 71 - 76 (Article)
Milan Paunović and Miroljub Milenković
Abstract
A total of 358 reports of otters from Serbia and Montenegro were collected and plotted onto 194 UTM squares. The data here have been divided between those resulting from direct observations (57%) and those from indirect observations (43%). We consider that status of the otter population to be encouraging, and probably stable at present in Serbia and Montenegro.
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Estimating River Otter Lutra longicaudis Population in Iberá Lagoon Using Direct Sightings Methodology
Pages 77 - 83 (Article)
Anibal Parera
Abstract
The real status of the Neotropical river otter in Argentina is largely unknown. Heavy hunting pressure in the middle decades of the 20th century has subsided and the population is believed to be recovering, especially in protected areas. This study surveyed otters in the subtropical swampy Iberá lagoon using direct sightings. A high rate of otter sightings was found, indicating a good otter population in this area.
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Fish Farming Regions as Key Elements for Natural Recolonisation along an Otter EECONET
Pages 84 - 91 (Article)
Robert Dulfer, Jan Plesnik, Marcela Kucerová and Aleš Toman
Abstract
High density otter populations currently exist in fish farming regions in central Europe. Migrating otters from these expanding populations can help recolonise depleted otter ranges in Western Europe. However, conflicts between fish farming interests and predating otters puts the latter at risk. Killing or relocating otters and large scale fencing (in effect habitat destruction) to protect fishery interests will disrupt the surplus character of these otter populations. A joint international effort is proposed to find the political and financial means to help solve this problem.
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