A week ago, on September 4, 2024, a routine morning jog turned into a harrowing experience for Mariasella Harun in Tanjung Aru, Malaysia. The 40-year-old woman found herself under attack by a group of eight otters in Perdana Park, located in the northern Sabah state of Borneo island.
This incident has brought attention to the growing number of otter-human conflicts in Southeast Asia. Despite their cute appearance, otters can be dangerous when provoked or feeling threatened. These semi-aquatic mammals, belonging to the subfamily Lutrinae, have powerful jaws capable of cracking open shellfish and can weigh up to 14 kg with a length of up to 4 feet, including their tail.
Roland Niun, director of the Sabah Wildlife Department, suggested that the otters might have perceived Harun as a threat to their cubs. He emphasized that otters generally avoid humans and warned against approaching or feeding them. The wildlife department plans to reinforce the park's fence to prevent future incidents.
Otters, found on every continent except Australia and Antarctica, play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems. There are 13 extant otter species, with most living in freshwater habitats. Known for their playful nature and often seen sliding down riverbanks, otters are skilled hunters with a diet primarily consisting of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
The incident in Malaysia is not isolated. Otter attacks have been increasing across Southeast Asia, raising concerns among wildlife authorities. This trend coincides with the growing popularity of otters as exotic pets in countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. However, the trapping and export of otters are illegal in many countries.
"At first, I thought it was a cart, but the creature jumped out and bit me while I was running, and there were many of them ... I could not even stand up when it happened."
The illegal wildlife trade poses a significant threat to otter populations. A recent report by Traffic Japan revealed that 60% of otters seized by authorities in Southeast Asia were destined for Japan. This illegal trade, often conducted online, contributes to the endangerment of many otter species, which are already vulnerable due to habitat loss and pollution.
As human populations expand and encroach on wildlife habitats, incidents like the one in Tanjung Aru may become more frequent. Wildlife experts stress the importance of public education about otter behavior and the need for responsible wildlife management to ensure the safety of both humans and animals.