Determination of the habitat preference and population status of otters (Lutra lutra) in the Köprü Stream and Manavgat Stream basin of Antalya province

The Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) is the most common of the 13 otter species distributed in the world. It is our only semi-aquatic species belonging to the marten family (Mustalidae). This study was carried out to determine the population status of the Otter (Lutra lutra) in the Köprü Stream and Manavgat Stream basin of Antalya province. Field studies were carried out in the Köprü stream and Manavgat stream basins within the borders of Antalya province. In the field studies, the wildlife inventory methods, the presence-absent trace indication method and the camera trap counting method, were used. In addition, face-to-face interviews were held with trout farm owners and local people within the research area, and preliminary information was obtained about the area use of the species. As a result of the data obtained, presence-absent trace symptom studies were carried out on 102 trial lines. As a result of presence-absence studies in the study area between February 2023 and May 2023, 22 camera trap stations were established at points where signs and traces of otters were found and where they are likely to be found. The camera traps were visited periodically every month, and the location of the camera traps was changed when necessary. As a result of the Camera Trap studies, 1140 Camera Trap days were reached in the study area with opportunistic sampling. The high density of humans and stray dogs in the otter habitat indicates that there is a significant human-wildlife conflict in this area.