WORLD OTTER DAY

World Otter Day occurs on the last Wednesday of May, which is May 31 this year. Otters are beautiful, playful animals that live in wetlands across the world. Species are declining due to habitat destruction, reduction of prey, roadkill, and illegal trade for fur and as pets.

There are 13 different species, 12 of which are disappearing. Seven of these species are classified as vulnerable and five are endangered. The International Otter Survival Fund founded World Otter Day with two goals in mind. First, to help raise awareness of the dangers that otters face. Second, to educate people on how to protect their habitats.

HISTORY OF WORLD OTTER DAY

World Otter Day had humble beginnings as Otterly Mad Week, a week of events, education, and fun. Then International Otter Awareness Day was founded before becoming the International Otter Survival Day, then World Otter Day, whose singular purpose is to ensure that future generations can enjoy these charming animals.

International Otter Survival Fund began in 1993 to protect and help the different species of otters worldwide. It was inspired by observing otters in their natural habitats. The Fund is one of the world’s leading charities with various projects that protect otters. They have dedicated over 20 years of research to conserving, protecting, and caring for otters and have developed a worldwide program to encourage education on otters.

To date, they have supported projects in 44 countries and helped cubs in 33 countries.

Since 2009, they held workshops across the world in places such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and China. The workshops provide training in otter field techniques, public awareness programs, law enforcement, and general conservation issues. Some other activities include research, campaigns, training, and otter hospitals.

5 FACTS ABOUT OTTERS

1. Most of them live in Alaska: About 90% of all sea otters live on the coast of Alaska.

2. They have their own tools. Otters use rocks to open clams and carry them around in case they are needed.

3. They are amazing at holding their breath. Sea otters can hold their breath for five minutes and river otters can hold theirs for eight.

4. They have a thick fur. Sea otters lack any blubber, so their thick, dense, water-resistant fur keeps them warm.

5. Their dung tells a story. Scientist believe they may be able to determine the sex, age, and reproductive status of an otter just by studying it’s dung.

WHY WORLD OTTER DAY IS IMPORTANT

Otters are cute. We don’t need too much convincing to spend the day learning about them. They are the cutest, quirky, furry animals.

Conservation is always a plus. World Otter Day focuses on teaching people about the conservation of our planet and our wildlife.

It’s a worthwhile global cause. Otters are found all over the world. They are also celebrated in over 20 different countries.