A factfile on the three species of otters found in India
How many otter species does India have?
India has three otter species: smooth-coated otter, Eurasian otter, Asian small-clawed otter. Asian small-clawed otter is the smallest species of otter in the world, meanwhile the smooth-coated otter is the largest species of otter in Asia. Eurasian otter is the most widely distributed species of otter in India.
What is the conservation status of the otter species found in India?
Both the smooth-coated otter and Asian small-clawed otter are vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The Eurasian otter is near threatened.
Are otters good swimmers?
Yes, otters are good swimmers due to the webbing on their feet.
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