# Survey finds evidence of over 1,000 smooth-coated otters in Salem 2026-08-06T22:55:56+00:00 | India | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet A recent survey found evidence of a large smooth-coated otter population around Mettur dam and stretches of the Kaveri in Salem district, Tamil Nadu. Local fishers and residents reported more than 1,000 otters, though India’s otter populations remain difficult to estimate because the species has received little study. India has three otter species, all protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The smooth-coated otter is listed as vulnerable by the IUCN. Pollution, altered river systems and conflict with fisherfolk threaten otters, while poaching for fur and body parts remains the biggest danger, Mongabay-India reports. ## Coverage - india.mongabay.com Tags: biodiversity, Kaveri, otters, Tamil Nadu, wildlife conservation Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/survey-finds-evidence-of-over-1000-smooth-coated-otters-in-salem/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/survey-finds-evidence-of-over-1000-smooth-coated-otters-in-salem/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.