There are three species of otter in sub-Saharan Africa and all of them play a key role in their natural environments. But little is known about their distribution and the impacts of habitat loss on these charismatic mammals. In order to protect otters, it is essential that more is known about them.

The "Conserve Our Otters " Project is a collaboration between the Joint Efforts for Green Mountain Initiative , Uganda, Wild Otters Research, the IUCN/SSC Otter Specialist Group and the African Otter Network. Members of the JEGMI will be responsible for data collection and project execution with the scientific backing and advice of the WOR team.

Funds are required to initiate the project: to cover the cost of staff time, equipment and help to raise awareness of otters in Africa.

Project aims

1) To confirm the presence of otter species in and around specific wetlands in Uganda.

2) Determine the ecology, habitat, behaviour and threats to otter species in Uganda.

3) Generate awareness and education to create stewardship and foster positivity towards wildlife and habitats.

4) Identify conflict issues and threats and developing mitigation measures where necessary.

Monitoring

The project will study otter presence and distribution across five locations in Uganda. The methods include verbal surveys, camera trap monitoring and field sign surveys.

Education and outreach

This will include public engagements/talks and presentations as well as distribution of outreach materials and showcasing camera trap images and videos. School presentations and informal meetings will be conducted in the local areas and in the local language of where the study is conducted to present information on otter behaviour and the role otters play in healthy ecosystems.

The otters

Read more about Joint Efforts for Green Mountains Initiative here and specifically otter conservation here .

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