Wild otters in Singapore – origins, status and conservation in Singapore
Speaker:
Mr N. Sivasothi
Synopsis:
Smooth-coated otters returned to mainland Singapore to reside and breed from 1998, after an absence of several decades. As populations increased, sightings of otters were appreciated by many, especially after a pair bred at Gardens by the Bay in 2014. In our jubilee year of 2015, the public were treated to an unprecedented view into the lives of wild otters at AMK-Bishan Park. They watched the pups emerge, learn to swim and grow. Pictures and video clips from a community of photographers and naturalists loosely termed ‘OtterWatch’ were enjoyed around the world.
Various partners have joined hands to provide advice about how to best behave with wildlife, to adopt sensitive construction near otter habitats, protect of otters in urban environments and successfully collaborated on the rescue and return of an abandoned otter pup. Formally announced as the Otter Working Group Singapore during the 13th International Otter Congress in July 2016, this group is working to ensure the peaceful coexistence of otters with people in Singapore.
This talk will cover status of otters in Singapore, aspects of their biology and ecological role, management issues in urban environments and value of the public’s role in Singapore through submission of sighting records, feedback about protection and help with increasing public awareness.
For enquiries, please contact:
Mr Ambert Ang
Phone: +65 65162711
Email: DBS_outreach@nus.edu.sg