Abstract

MAYAGOITIA-GONZALEZ, Piedad Esther et al. Habitat use of the neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis) and human attitudes in southern Tamaulipas, Mexico. Therya [online]. 2013, vol.4, n.2, pp.243-256. ISSN 2007-3364.  https://doi.org/10.12933/therya-13-130.

The habitat of the neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis) at La Vega Escondida Protected Area (LVPA), located in southern Tamaulipas, is surrounded by an expanding urban landscape. Wetlands in this region are under an intense pressure due to several anthropogenic activities such as agriculture, livestock and commercial fisheries. The main goals of this study were to evaluate otter habitat within LVPA and determine human attitudes towards this species. Our data suggests canals were the most utilized habitat; the majority of otter evidence, which was comprised of scats were found in this habitat. Additionally, a high presence of logs and roots were recorded in canals (50% and 70% of canal transects). Responses from interviews indicate that the majority of the people had a positive attitude towards otters. Management recommendations include conservation strategies focused on highlighting both the ecological and cultural value of otters in this region.

Keywords : anthropogenic activities; neotropical otter; otter evidences; urban landscape; wetlands.

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