Otters: Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation

by Hans Kruuk

Otters are highly charismatic and popular animals of very considerable concern to conservationists worldwide. Written by the pre-eminent authority in the field, this book builds on the reputation of the author's landmark monograph of the European otter, Wild Otters (OUP, 1995). Furthermore, its broader scope to include all species of otter in North America as well as Europe and elsewhere leads to a deeper synthesis that greatly expands the book's overall relevance and potential readership.

Aimed at naturalists, scientists and conservationists, its personal style and generously illustrated text will appeal to amateurs and professionals alike. It emphasizes recent research and conservation management initiatives for all 13 species of otter worldwide, incorporates recent molecular research on taxonomy and population genetics, and discusses the wider implications of otter studies for ecology and conservation biology.

As well as enchanting direct observations of the animals, there is guidance about how and where to watch and study them. From otters in the British and American lakes and rivers, to sea otters in the Pacific Ocean, giant otters in the Amazon and other species in Africa and Asia, this book provides an engaging approach to their fascinating existence, to the science needed to understand it, and to the very real threats to their survival.

Genres: Nature, Nonfiction

265 pages, Paperback

First published August 17, 2006

Reviews

[Matthew Harwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will help anyone who wants to get to know otters in either a scientific nature or a purely fascination nature. The details that I gained from this book helped me greatly understand and plan for a research project that explored otters in the UK.

[Kris Worsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written by a hugely knowledgable scholar, for whom years of experience and research clearly has not dulled the enthusiasm and child-like pleasure of seeing an otter in the wild. I read it to learn more about otters because I wanted to learn to photograph them in the wild. It was a huge help and remains a constant companion on my trips to the Scottish coast. It's just a good, solid book, very readable to non-specialists, written from experience and enthusiasm.

[Luke Stuntz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The definitive reference; fantastic breadth (across all 13 species) and depth. Does a fantastic job of merging Kruuk's more naturalist approach to wildlife biology with rigorous scientific skepticism. I would like to see an updated addition that reflects advancements made using genetic methods and novel technology (camera traps, proximity sensors) over the last fifteen years. Note that some of the terminology reflects Kruuk's background working with Eurasian otters (e.g., "latrine" isn't even included in the index) – some translation is necessary when using this book as a jumping off point for literature reviews.