First confirmed sighting of the elusive Eurasian Otter in Goa, India

Otters are semi-aquatic carnivores that play a vital role in maintaining the balance of freshwater ecosystems. India is home to three species of otters: the Smooth-coated Otter Lutrogale perspicillata, the Asian Small-clawed Otter Aonyx cinereus, and the Eurasian Otter Lutra lutra. In Goa, only the Smooth-coated Otter and the Asian Small-clawed Otter had been previously recorded. Our discovery has confirmed the presence of the Eurasian Otter in Goa, expanding its known distribution. This ground-breaking finding was made on 14 February 2025, when an injured otter was found near Dharbandoda, Goa. Upon examination, the presence of a distinctive W-shaped or zig-zag patterned rhinarium confirmed that the otter was indeed a Eurasian Otter. Unfortunately, the otter was later declared dead. This discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of Goa and emphasizes the need for further research and conservation efforts to protect these elusive creatures and their habitats.