Chinmaya IAS Academy – Current Affairs Chinmaya IAS Academy – Current Affairs
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GS3 ENVIRONMENT
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- Recent Discovery: Otters spotted in Gurez Valley after 25 years.
- Location: Kishangana River, Gurez Valley, Kashmir.
- Historical Context
- Common in 1990s: Eurasian otters were abundant in Kashmir rivers.
- Decline Post-1997: Due to habitat loss, poaching, and pesticide use.
- Scientific Classification
- Species Name: Lutra lutra
- Common Names: Eurasian Otter, European Otter.
- Habitat & Behavior
- Preferred Habitats: Rivers, lakes, marshes, coastal areas.
- Adaptations: Webbed feet, ability to close ears/nose underwater.
- Solitary Creatures: Rarely seen in groups.
- Conservation Status
- IUCN: Near Threatened.
- India’s Wildlife Protection Act (1972): Schedule II.
- Significance of Gurez Valley Sighting: Signs of recovery but still vulnerable.
- About Gurez Valley
- Location: 86 km from Bandipore, 123 km from Srinagar.
- River: Kishanganga River.
- Geography: High Himalayan region, near Line of Control (LoC).
- Accessibility: Closed for six months due to Razdan Pass.
