Monitored Release of Smooth-Coated Otters (Lutrogale Perspicillata) in Angkor Archeological Park, Siem Reap, Cambodia

摘要

© 2021. All Rights ReservedA family of smooth-coated otters (Lutrogale perspicillata) from Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center (PTWRC), Takeo, Cambodia, was reintroduced into the Angkor Archeological Park, Siem Reap, Cambodia, following IUCN Reintroduction Guidelines. Protocols included pre-release site surveys, candidate selection, health checks, rehabilitation and training, followed by acclimatization at the release site and post-release supplementary feeding and daily monitoring to ensure the continued survival and welfare of the released otters. The family, composing one male, one female and three offspring, was transported from PTWRC to a previously prepared release enclosure within the protected forest surrounding the Angkor Archeological Park for acclimatization. Following the death of two offspring due to eating poisonous toad eggs within the prerelease enclosure, the surviving three otters were released. The remaining juvenile disappeared approximately three weeks later, shortly after which the adult pair produced two pups. The family of four continues to survive, now six months after their release.