Otters are a keystone, flagship and bioindicator species
Freshwater ecosystems are vital to the survival of a large number of Earth's species, including our own. Unfortunately, freshwater ecosystems are among the most threatened habitats globally, and are experiencing the highest rates of species loss. As the human population continues to grow, so does the demand for land and water, further increasing pressure on wetlands - which are prime otter habitat.
15% of Uganda is wetlands
This includes five major lakes (Victoria, Albert, Kyoga, Edward and George), about 160 minor lakes, an extensive river system, and small dams and ponds. These wetlands exhibit extensive biodiversity and provide a wide range of ecosystem services for the local human communities. These communities depend on wetlands for their livelihoods, particularly for fishing and agriculture.
In recent decades, habitat loss, pollution and an increase in the effects of climate change are all taking a severe toll on Ugandan lakes and wetlands, affecting the communities and numerous species that depend on them including otters.
As an umbrella species, otters depend on healthy wetlands for their survival, but they also play an important role in regulating and maintaining the function of these very same ecosystems. Essentially a give and take relationship, one that needs to be understood in order to be managed and conserved.
An initial review of the published literature suggests that historically, three species of otter have ranges in Uganda: the African-clawless otter (Aonyx capensis), the spotted-necked otter (Hydrictis maculicollis) and the Congo-clawless otter (Aonyx congicus). However, there has been limited formal study, resulting in data deficits and knowledge gaps. This study will be instrumental in establishing a baseline of otter distributions as well as expand existing knowledge on the habitat preferences, ecology and threats to these three otter species, thereby facilitating future research and conservation management.
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 present.
3) Generate awareness and education to promote stewardship and foster positivity towards local wildlife and habitats.
4) Identify conflict issues and threats and develop mitigation measures when necessary.
How You Can Help
Any financial assistance goes a long way to our required budget. You can follow our work and spread the word by joining our Facebook page and sharing our info and updates with your friends and followers. This creates awareness about the species and the ecosystems they inhabit as well as the work we do.
You can also follow these hashtags on Instagram: #ottersuganda #weloveotters
And, of course, any donation is always much appreciated ^_^
Collaboration
This study sets a precedent for otter research which can then be replicated around the region. Verbal surveys, although used primarily to get information and data, result in small scale outreach and capacity building, laying foundations for further research and stewardship for the species and their habitats in Uganda.
This project is a joint effort between JEFGMI, Wild Otters Research, the African Otter Network and the IUCN/SSC Otter Specialist Group.