The Smooth-coated Otter, fighting a losing battle

The Victim - The Smooth-coated Otter

The verdict is clear and the judgement has been passed. The Smooth-coated Otter in India is fighting for its existence and this battle is gradually turning out to be a losing one. Perhaps the greatest weakness the Smooth-coated Otter faces is that it is harmless, not well-known amongst the public at large, cannot defend itself or raise a voice against the injustice being meted out to it.

From poaching, encroachment of habitat, intensive fishing to pollution; humans have done almost everything possible to ensure that this animal soon disappears from the face of the Earth.

This is a matter that just cannot be ignored or denied any longer

In India today, the concern about extinction of endangered animals is perhaps limited to the better known species like tigers, elephants, lions and rhinocerouses. This concern and attention also needs to be extended to lesser known but equally important species which contribute to a living planet.

It is now time for us all to come together and make an effort to save the Smooth-coated Otter. We have to ensure that the next generation gets to see this friendly and harmless animal. Saving this animal would also help in saving the wetlands which are critical in maintaining the balance of nature.

We have to make certain that we leave behind a living planet for our children to live and flourish in, tomorrow and forever. And to make this a reality we need your support and generous contribution.

You can make a difference

The estimated sum required in the proposed first phase of the WWF project to save this animal is Rs. 25 lakhs – a large amount by itself, but not large enough for a country as large as ours, with citizens like you who are sensitive to the needs of the environment.

For instance a donation from you will ensure that we can initiate a process for Survey and Documentation of the Smooth-coated Otter. This will help WWF study, survey and assess the distribution of the Smooth-coated Otter population in India.

No matter what your contribution, it will go a long way in ensuring the survival of the Smooth-coated Otter. I urge you to fill in the enclosed donation form, and send in your donation today to help this creature fight what could be the most crucial battle of its life – the fight for survival.

Yours sincerely,
Anisha Singh
Director,
Network Services and Supporter Relations