Changes in the Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) Population Including Assessment of Damage in the Last Decade: Is Their Protection Still Necessary?

Abstract

Monitoring wildlife populations requires trustworthy assessment methods to get reliable data to be able to make reasonable management decisions. The Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) experienced a dramatic population decline throughout Central Europe during the twentieth century but is currently recovering in both distribution range and population size. Their numbers are regularly monitored by the relevant authorities, who issue an annual report on the occurrence of Eurasian Otters and the financial damage caused by them. These data for the last decade show that the abundance of Eurasian Otters in 2020 was 72% higher than in 2011 and that financial losses on fish farms has increased by 148% over the same period. In view of these facts, it is appropriate to discuss whether the Eurasian Otter is still an endangered species in Central Europe or whether the time has come for government regulation of their numbers, as has already happened with other initially protected animal, great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo).