The Status of Iraq Smooth-Coated Otter Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli Hayman 1956 and Eurasian Otter Lutra lutra Linnaeus 1758 in Iraq

Since the 1960s field expeditions, there has been little more knowledge acquired about the mammals of Iraq. There were also no previous surveys dedicated to assessing the status and presence of the two otter species described in Iraq: The Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) and the Iraq smooth –coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli, an endemic subspecies). Historically, both species thrived among suitable habitats of Iraqi wetlands and were named by Iraqis "Chlaeib Al M'ai" meaning "The waterdog". Both species’ populations have declined substantially 1991-2003 due to hunting and habitat destruction. During 2005-2012, intensive in situ field research has been done aimed at revealing the status of otters in Iraq. Different types of habitat at 21 sites across nine Iraqi provinces were visited and information about both species has been recorded. The smooth-coated otter (the endemic subspeciesmaxwelli) has proven by current research to be thriving in the southern Iraqi marshes with an additional remarkable sighting in northern Iraq (Kurdistan Region). Our research describes for the first time the geographical distribution, threats, and conservation status of both of these otter species in Iraq.