Nepal holds three species of otters (Eurasian, Smooth-coated and Asian small-clawed). There is important lack of information on status and distribution of otters in Nepal. A systematic monitoring of otters is yet to be started in Nepal.

Otters in Nepal are threatened by water pollution and loss of prey, hunting and killing, loss of wetland habitat, and limited research & awareness (Kafle, 2009). Several mammals including otters, have not got priority in research and monitoring programmes either inside or outside protected areas. The degree of understanding among people, both general public and wetland dwellers, is too low, given that many of them are unaware of existence of otters. Thus, otters remain as neglected species in Nepal.

The project will identify key wetland sites in high-hills region of Nepal in which otters are present. This information is not available yet. It will form a basis for further study and intervention focusing on otter conservation in future.

The findings of the project will serve as a baseline tool for designing and implementing long-term in-situ conservation initiatives in future. It will be an initial step to develop a network of ‘Key Otter Areas (KOAs)’ in Nepal. Wetland Friends of Nepal will be mobilized for implementation of the activities.