Conservationists in New Mexico are celebrating a significant improvement in the otter population, which was once nearly extinct in the state. Thanks to restoration efforts, there are hopes that the mammals will fully establish themselves in the region once again.
The top predator species, once nearly extinct, is making a promising comeback. Conservationists in New Mexico are thrilled by a steadily improving otter population.
History of Otter Population Decline
Most of the state’s otters were lost in the early 1900s due to unregulated trapping and habitat loss. However, thanks to restoration efforts, there are hopes that the mammals will fully establish themselves in the region once again.
Restoration Efforts
Between 2008 and 2010, 33 otters were released in the state. By 2018, a report revealed that the otter population had grown to 100 strong. A further nine otters have been brought to the state from Louisiana to further support the population.
Importance of Otters in Ecosystem
In addition to being a well-loved animal, otters play an important role in an ecosystem. As observed by the National Environmental Education Foundation, the predators help to maintain natural balance by keeping prey species numbers under control. Otters also help to improve water quality, which is beneficial for river health and the human water supply.
Quotes from Nick Forman
“They provide that ecosystem service of being a top predator,” Forman added. “To have them back on the landscape after being gone for so long, it’s really bringing back that native part of the landscape. It’s good to have this species back in the role it’s always played in our rivers and lakes.”
Similar Efforts Worldwide
Similar efforts worldwide are helping to support threatened animal populations and restore ecosystem balance. For example, a dam removal project on the California-Oregon border has helped wild salmon return to historic river routes, while the reintroduction of beavers in Scotland has boosted endangered water voles.
Conclusion
These efforts prove that, despite the destructive actions of humans in the past that led to the harm and near-extinction of various animal species, local climate action is helping to restore ecosystems and reverse that damage. It’s never too late to make a positive change.
Conservationists in New Mexico are celebrating a significant improvement in the otter population, which was once nearly extinct in the state.
According to reports, most of the state’s otters were lost in the early 1900s due to unregulated trapping and habitat loss. However, thanks to restoration efforts, there are hopes that the mammals will fully establish themselves in the region once again.
Otter Population Growth
In 2008-2010, 33 otters were released into the state, followed by a further nine brought from Louisiana in 2019. By 2018, the otter population had grown to 100 strong.
Quotes from Nick Forman (continued)
As noted by Nick Forman, carnivore and small mammal program manager for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, otters play an important role in maintaining natural balance and improving water quality. “They provide that ecosystem service of being a top predator,” he added. “To have them back on the landscape after being gone for so long, it’s really bringing back that native part of the landscape.”
Global Efforts to Restore Ecosystems
This promising comeback is not unique to New Mexico. Similar efforts worldwide are helping to support threatened animal populations and restore ecosystem balance. For example, a dam removal project on the California-Oregon border has helped wild salmon return to historic river routes, while the reintroduction of beavers in Scotland has boosted endangered water voles.
Restoring Ecosystems and Reversing Damage
These successes demonstrate that it’s never too late to make a positive change and restore ecosystems damaged by human actions. Local climate action is helping to reverse this damage and bring back native species to their natural habitats.
