Open AccessDistribution of Smooth-coated Otters Lutrogale perspicillata (Mammalia: Carnivora: Mustelidae): in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, India
Author(s) -
Swanand R. Patil,
Kranti Yardi
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
journal of threatened taxa
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.264
H-Index - 8
eISSN - 0974-7907
pISSN - 0974-7893
DOI - 10.11609/jott.7652.14.1.20511-20516
Subject(s) - mustelidae , otter , lutra , geography , carnivora , distribution (mathematics) , zoology , ecology , biology , mathematics , mathematical analysis , endocrinology
This report describes the distribution of Smooth-coated Otters in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, and investigates the utility of scat counts for quantifying otter occurrence. The study duration was from February to June 2020. Surveys were conducted along the Jog River in Anjarle and Aade River in Aadekond using camera traps. The results subjected to principal component analysis indicated that the occurrence of Smooth-coated Otters at Anjarle is 76% and at Aadekond 48%. We also mapped the distribution and threats associated with Smooth-coated Otters. This study serves as a baseline for efforts to support long-term otter research and conservation.