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DAILY NEWS ANALYSIS
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24 August, 2025
3 Min Read
The Smooth-Coated Otters have recently been in the news following the arrival of a pair at the National Zoological Park (NZP) in Delhi from Surat, marking a rare animal exchange after 20 years. This development is significant for both conservation efforts and the public’s awareness of this vulnerable species.
Scientific Classification: The smooth-coated otter is the only extant representative of the genus Lutrogale.
Geographical Range: Smooth-coated otters are found across southern and Southeast Asia, including India, China, and even a small population in Iraq.
They thrive in lowlands, coastal mangrove forests, peat swamp forests, and freshwater wetlands such as large forested rivers, lakes, and rice paddies. While they are adapted for aquatic life, they are also comfortable on land and can travel overland in search of suitable habitats.
Size and Appearance: The smooth-coated otter is the largest species of otter in Southeast Asia.
Their fur is shorter and smoother compared to other otter species.
Their fur is typically light to dark brown dorsally and light brown to grayish ventrally.
Under fur is tightly packed, and they have longer, water-repellent guard hairs.
Behavior: They are strong swimmers and are known for hunting in groups. When fishing, they often travel in a V-formation going upstream, showcasing their social and cooperative hunting style.
The species faces numerous threats, primarily due to loss of habitat, habitat degradation caused by water pollution from fertilizers, pesticides, and poaching.
The IUCN Red List classifies the smooth-coated otter as Vulnerable, reflecting the significant risks they face in their natural habitat.
The move to bring these otters to the National Zoological Park in Delhi is part of ongoing efforts to boost conservation awareness and provide a safe breeding environment. The exchange program between zoos, which is rare and takes place over long periods, is critical in maintaining genetic diversity and reinforcing the importance of wildlife protection.
Source: THE HINDU
03 Dec, 25
On 1st November, eight Indian states—Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu—along with five Union Territories—Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Delhi, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry—celebrate their Formation Day. This date marks an important milestone in India
02 Dec, 25
The Turtle Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Kachhua Sanctuary, is located in the Varanasi district of Uttar Pradesh. It is recognised as India’s first freshwater turtle wildlife sanctuary, established to conserve endangered turtle species and support the ecological health of the Ganga River. Location and Extent The sanctuary co
02 Dec, 25
The Ministry of Education plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computational Thinking (CT) from Class 3 onwards in the 2026–27 academic year. This initiative is part of the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023 and aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The aim is to prepare student
02 Dec, 25
Scientists from the Environment Department of Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) in Shimla have recently revealed that the Sal tree (Shorea robusta) is the most effective natural air purifier for combating rising pollution levels. Their findings highlight the tree’s superior capacity to trap dust, absorb gases, and cleanse the air compared
02 Dec, 25
The President of the United States has ordered the resumption of nuclear weapon testing after a gap of 33 years, the last test being in 1992. This decision marks a significant shift in global nuclear policy and has far-reaching implications for geopolitics, the environment, and international security. Status of Global Nuclear Weapon Testing
03 Dec,2025
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