Preliminary Findings from a New Study of the Congo Clawless Otter (Aonyx congicus) on the Dji Dji River, Ivindo National Park, Gabon (or “Where Have all the Otters Gone?”)

The Congo Clawless Otter (Aonyx congicus), is a little-known otter species that inhabits central African rivers and swamps. We report on the results of 3 field expeditions into the Dji Dji River, (Ivindo National Park, Gabon) of varying length (3 days to 6 weeks) to collect preliminary observations on this species, the sympatric spot-necked otter (Lutra maculicollis), and the fish community of the Dji Dji River. We also surveyed local people (primarily artisanal fishermen) in the Makokou area of Ivindo National Park about their knowledge of otter species and human/wildlife conflicts in the area. Sightings of otters in 2010 indicated both otter species to be common on the Dji Dji River. Fish sampling in 2011 indicated high abundance but low diversity of fishes in this blackwater river. Feeding observations of a solitary animal on the Dji Dji and a family of 3 on the Ivindo River indicate a high dependence on large earthworms (Annelidae) captured near the river’s edge. With a severe drought in 2011 affecting the Dji Dji River level, we found fewer otters compared to 2010 observations and no families with young. We speculate on the possibility of seasonal downstream movements, which could affect conservation of the species in the region.