CONSERVATION OF ENDANGERED OTTER SPECIES IN XUAN LIEN NATIONAL PARK, THANH HOA PROVINCE

Following a series of otter research projects in Xuan Lien National Park (NP), Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD), in collaboration with the Park’s Management Board, has expanded surveys to assess population size and home ranges of otter groups in the area.

During 2024–2025, CCD and Xuan Lien NP set camera traps at 119 locations and recorded otter presence at 20 locations. To date, one species has been confirmed: the Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus). Otters are small carnivorous mammals that primarily inhabit aquatic ecosystems—large streams, rivers, and lakes—but have become increasingly rare due to hunting, trapping, and especially the decline of natural food resources.

The presence of otters is also a key indicator of freshwater ecosystem health: areas where otters are found typically still have clean water and abundant fish resources. Therefore, the decline of otters reflects the degradation of freshwater habitats.

In the next steps, CCD and Xuan Lien NP will:

• Continue camera-trap monitoring of otters and other small carnivores;
• Strengthen communication and collaborative protection efforts to prevent hunting and safeguard otter habitats, enabling population recovery.

Over the past seven years, Xuan Lien NP and CCD have jointly implemented various conservation initiatives targeting endangered flora and fauna, contributing to effective protection and restoration measures. These research results not only enrich the overall picture of Xuan Lien’s biodiversity value but also provide practical evidence to recommend conservation and restoration solutions—not only for Xuan Lien but also for similar landscapes across Vietnam.

Watch more about the endangered otters right here.