Eurasian Otter

Otters are considered an indicator species, meaning that their presence reflects the health of rivers, wetlands, and freshwater ecosystems. Protecting otters therefore also means protecting Israel's fragile aquatic habitats and the many plants and animals that depend on them.The dramatic decline of the Eurasian otter in Israel has prompted an unprecedented partnership between the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, the Mammal Center of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel, and the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo. Together, these organizations have launched a national conservation program dedicated to the protection, breeding, and future reintroduction of otters into their natural habitats.The program brings together every aspect of modern wildlife conservation, including:

Monitoring and research of wild otter populations

Establishment of a dedicated conservation breeding center at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo

Future reintroductions into suitable habitats

Long-term monitoring of released animals

Protection and restoration of freshwater ecosystems

Public education and community outreach

The Eurasian otter is threatened throughout much of its European range and is managed under the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) coordinated by the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). The Jerusalem Biblical Zoo is proud to participate in this international conservation network.To establish a breeding population, two otters rescued from fish ponds in northern Israel were brought to the zoo, followed by an additional individual from Novosibirsk Zoo. With the generous support of the Friends of the Biblical Zoo Association, a spacious, purpose-built habitat was created to provide the animals with an environment that encourages their natural behaviors and supports future breeding success.Successfully breeding Eurasian otters remains a significant challenge, and the zoo continues to work closely with its conservation partners to improve husbandry and management techniques. The long-term goal is to establish a sustainable backup population that can reinforce the small and vulnerable wild population and, when conditions allow, provide young otters for release into restored and protected habitats in northern Israel.For the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo, this project represents the very essence of the modern zoo: combining animal care, scientific research, international collaboration, habitat conservation, and public engagement to ensure that endangered species not only survive, but one day thrive again in the wild.

Photo: Shai Ben Ami

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