Otters Found Chilling On Thai Beach As Tourists Barred From The Island

Otter family on quiet Ranong beach


Images adapted from: Jutharat Ladkeaw

After months of lockdown due to the pandemic causing attractions like beaches to be visitor-free, a group of smooth-coated otters were spotted chilling on the beach of Koh Phayam in Ranong

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Jutharat Ladkaew, a resort owner on the island, found these cute little otters on the beach, so she took some videos and posted them online

She told Khaosod that she counted around 10 otters and that she was very excited and happy to see them. 

https://thesmartlocal.com/thailand/rare-sea-turtle-nests/


Wildlife recovered


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This is one of many cases in Thailand that reveal how nature recovers in the absence of humans due to the coronavirus pandemic.  

The president of the Tourism Council of Ranong said, “this shows that Ranong is so rich in biodiversity” while tourists have been away.  


Otter listed as vulnerable species


Image credit: Chiangmai Safari

Smooth-coated Otters are categorised by the IUCN Red List as a Vulnerable Species as their population is continually decreasing due to pollution and urbanisation. The good news is that Thai fishermen don’t hunt these cute buddies.

Thailand is home to 3 different types of otters: Asian small-clawed otters, Eurasian otters, and hairy-nosed otters. 

We hope that we can find a way to live with nature after everything reopens. 

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Eddie Jirayu: