First Photographic Record of Smooth-Coated Otters (Lutra Perspicillata Geoffroy 1826) in Vellar Estuary, Northeast Coast of Tamil Nadu, India

The presence of the smooth-coated otter (L. perspicillata) in the estuary of River Vellar has been confirmed by sighting and interview surveys. A family of smooth-coated otters was observed in a stream, hunting and eating fish from fishermen’s nets, resting and swimming around during the end of morning low tide. This is the first study that confirms the presence of otters here. The next closest known record is from Pichavaram which is about 6km south of the Vellar estuary. The family in the Vellar estuary consisted of ten otters; they were social, showing parental care. The report suggests the available rich biodiversity of the river which should come under conservation criteria.