Otterly Wild

Published on: 09/09/2024

Photo title: Smooth-coated otters

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Photo Credits: Vikram Nanjappa

The most obviously unique thing about the Kabini wildlife experience is the boat safari. Quite unexpectedly, what feels like a soothing joy ride on the shallow but calm waters of the Kabini reservoir, there are exciting things to see – elephant herds, the occasional tiger relaxing on the bank, deer dotting the greens close to the water, sambar deer cooling their thirst, water birds from ducks and storks to cormorants and herons sharing the space with the bigger animals – the richness and diversity of fauna is not what you’d anticipate on a ride like this.

Even when you think you have seen everything, the waters still have a surprise trick to throw at you. It was a warm summer afternoon as our safari boat chugged along on the waters. The familiar sights of cormorants and spot-billed ducks filled our line of sight when movement on the muddy bank suddenly caught my eye. To my astonishment, I saw a family of smooth-coated otters – two adults and four or five youngsters – frolicking in the afternoon sun.

Watching them play, I was struck by their agility, limber and playful on the ground as effortless as they are in the water. The young ones tumbled over each other, chirping excitedly, while the adults kept a watchful eye on their surroundings.

I’ve grown up to call these creatures "neer nayi" (water dogs), which is relatable as their cute faces resemble cute Retriever pups; but otters are not remotely as common as dogs.

Decades or centuries ago they might have been, as their riverine paths crossed with fishermen and farmers more often than either would care for. Not so now.

As our boat drifted closer, the otter family became alert. In a flash, most of the group slipped into the water, vanishing beneath the surface. However, two large adults – likely the parents – stayed behind to shepherd the last of the young into the river, then turned to face our boat.

Photo title: Smooth-coated otters

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Photo Credits: Vikram Nanjappa

One of the otters, bared its teeth in a clear display of protective aggression. The message was unmistakable: "Stay away from my family." Only when all were safely away did it finally plunge into the water, but not before casting an angry glare in our direction. Halfway into the water, it turned again in one final attempt to show how formidable its teeth were.

This brief encounter left me pondering the similarities between these wild creatures and ourselves. The fierce protective instinct of the parent otters resonated deeply with me. Aren't we all, regardless of species, driven by the need to protect our loved ones? In that moment, the divide between humans and animals seemed to blur, revealing a universal truth about the nature of family and survival.

Yet, as I reflected on this beautiful experience, a sobering thought occurred to me. While this otter could defend her family against our intrusion, there are far greater threats that they are powerless against. Smooth-coated otters face numerous challenges in today's world, many of which are human-induced.

Habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural expansion is perhaps the most significant threat. The wetlands and riverine ecosystems that otters depend on are rapidly disappearing. Pollution, particularly from pesticides and industrial waste, poisons their food sources and degrades their habitat. Not to forget being hunted for their pelts.

My encounter with the otters of Kabini was brief, but its impact will last a lifetime. It served as a poignant reminder of the wonders that exist in our natural that we don’t see every day, so mostly believe that they don’t exist. As I left the river that day, I carried with me a renewed sense of connection to the wild and its hidden riches and imperceptible diversity.

Gowri Subramanya

Gowri Subramanya is an editor and learning consultant based in Bengaluru, India. Writing and photography are her chosen tools of creative expression and the wilderness is her muse. A keen observer of the interaction between nature and culture, she loves to explore the history as well as the natural history of new places during her travels. With a soft spot for bird songs and a weakness for flowers, she indulges in a healthy dose of tree gazing every morning.

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Hampi

Kabini

Kalahari

Otterly Wild

Gowri Subramanya