NT

Near Threatened

Version

2008

Ruiz-Olmo, J., Loy, A., Cianfrani, C., Yoxon, P., Yoxon, G., de Silva, P.K., Roos, A., Bisther, M., Hajkova, P. & Zemanova, B.

Hussain, S.A. & Conroy, J. (Otter Red List Authority)

This species is considered to be Near Threatened due to an ongoing population decline, but at a rate no longer exceeding 30% over the past 3 generation (criterion A2). In recent years, there is ample evidence that its population is recovering in western Europe and that the viable populations occur in the former USSR and many parts of south and southeast Asia. Given the lack of information from many parts of its range, the past declines and the sensitivity of the species to sudden changes in threats, the species was listed as Near Threatened in 2004. The concerns were also taken into account about the status of populations in the far east - China and Indo-China, because of possible over-exploitation. The Near Threatened listing was more of a precautionary approach, as it indicates that the recovery in western Europe is genuine and that the conservation actions for this species need to be sustained. Besides, there is concern about what is happening in parts of its range in Asia due increasing habitat loss and poaching. This justifies the Near Threatened of the species as this species nearly qualifies for Vulnerable under A2acd.