Eurasian Otter (EVINBO)

The Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) was a common species in Western-Europe until the 19th century. Until then, the Otter was present in most of the aquatic systems in Belgium. Various threats have reduced the otter populations in Western-Europe to an unsustainable threshold leading to local extinctions during the 20th century. However, recent observations of otter, suggest that otter is slowly recolonizing Belgium from The Netherlands, France and Germany.
Seen these evolutions, WWF decided to develop an Otter Program. An ambitious plan, with long term engagement and objectives over 20 years. WWF will work on ensuring connectivity for a natural recolonization of otter in Belgian waters, coming from the neighbouring countries. For an optimal efficiency and prioritization of inputs, WWF wishes to have a better view on the actual and potential habitats in Belgium, and of the existing (and future) bottlenecks.

The general objective of the study is to analyse the opportunities and obstacles for viable otter populations in Flanders, in connection with the population in the Netherlands and Wallonia. Based on these results, a connection model will be built to prioritize measures for the protection of otter in Flanders.