Cotter returns to the Westerwald after 37 years!

Cotter returns to the Westerwald after 37 years!

in the Westerwald, Rhineland-Palatinate, a otter was spotted again after 37 years. This spectacular return is considered a significant success for nature conservation in Germany. According to Merkur , the proof was given as part of the "Otterland Rhineland-Palatinate" project, whereby Spurs dogs of the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research identified fecal samples. The exact location remains secret from consideration for the animal.

Environment Minister Katrin Eder described the rediscovery of the otter as a significant indication of the quality of water in the region. For the first time, a otter at the Nahe has been spotted again since 2016. It is estimated that the otter, who eats fishing, crabs and frogs, could eat about 15 percent of his body weight every day, which could have a significant impact on domestic fauna in a protected habitat.

growth and challenges

Although the return of the otter is perceived as positive, especially with regard to the quality of water, but there are also concerns. In Baden-Württemberg, for example, some fear that the overpopulation of otter could lead to considerable damage in fishing. Losses of up to 80 percent are realistic when otter settles in an area, while shooting was allowed to shoot from the strict conditions. The FDP parliamentary group in Baden-Württemberg even calls for the animals in exceptional cases, even if the Ministry of Environment of the region is currently not planning any such measures, Magazine .

The resettlement of the otter is part of a more comprehensive project called "Germany again Otterland", the goal of which is to re -spread the otter in Germany. For this purpose, measures to improve the quality of the habitat and the networking of water landscapes are to be taken. This project is supported by eight partners from science and nature conservation and runs until November 30, 2028 with a financial volume of 7,060,000 euros, such as Federal Office for Nature Conservation explained.

The promotion and protection of the otter is not only a nature conservation project, but also an approach to sensitization to the importance of intact water landscapes. Although the otter acts as a guiding principle, it is essential that the interests of the fish breeders and the potential conflicts will also incorporate into the plans at an early stage. This could be particularly important if the otter population continues to increase and the displacement of domestic fish species is in prospect.