In a heartening discovery for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists, the elusive Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) — locally known as Wuddar — has been spotted in a tributary of the Lidder River near Srigufwara in Bijbehara, South Kashmir. Once believed to be extinct in the region, this rare sighting marks a significant moment for Jammu and Kashmir’s freshwater habitats.
The Eurasian otter is a semi-aquatic mammal and a keystone species in river ecosystems. Its presence is an indicator of clean water and healthy aquatic biodiversity. The otter’s return to Kashmir signals a potential revival of riverine health in a region facing challenges like habitat fragmentation, pollution, sand mining, and unchecked construction.