Pakistan is home to two otter species, the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) and the smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata). Two decades ago, these species thrived in habitats across Pakistan, but now they are limited to isolated patches in their range (1), are classified as Near Threatened in Pakistan (2), and are listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) (3). Pakistan must take steps to protect otters.
