Eurasian Otter in Israel Faces Survival Challenges Amid Environmental Changes
The Eurasian otter, a critically endangered species in Israel, primarily inhabits the Sea of Galilee and the Hula Valley. Dr. Amit Dolev, an ecologist with the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, highlights the threats to the otter's survival, including habitat loss, roadkill, and climate change. The drying of water bodies and infrastructure development have disrupted the otter's natural habitats and movement corridors. Conservation efforts are underway, such as creating safe passages under bridges to reduce roadkill and adapting water reservoir banks to be more wildlife-friendly. These measures aim to preserve the otter population and maintain the health of Israel's aquatic ecosystems.