Giant Otter Conservation

The aim of our project in the Boven Coesewijne Nature Reserve is to develop conservation initiatives and raise awareness about the importance of protecting giant otters in Suriname, both in and around the reserve and among the public. 

The giant otter is listed in Appendix 1 of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and is classified as "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List. The total global population of giant otters is small, but more importantly, the individual subpopulations are fragmented and small. Due to its conspicuous behavior and social nature, this species is easily extirpated and therefore extremely vulnerable. Pollution and habitat disruption also threaten the species.