Residents along the Bangkok Noi Canal in Nonthaburi province were astonished to witness over 20 otters swimming and fishing in the waterway around 3 p.m. on Tuesday. The animals, appearing in two distinct groups along opposite banks of the canal, engaged in fishing activities while seemingly observing each other.
Several long-time residents, some having lived by the canal for over four decades, expressed that this was the first time they had seen such a large number of otters. One individual recalled seeing only three or four otters in the same area approximately two years ago, noting the significant increase in their current population.
This resident also suggested that the otters might have been carried to the area by water currents flowing from northern Thailand, as they tend to appear when such flows occur. The unusual gathering of otters has sparked public discussion regarding the reasons behind their presence.
Online speculation includes theories that the otters may be seeking a more secure environment due to an anticipated natural disaster, or that the canal has become a more suitable habitat due to its cleanliness, undisturbed nature, and abundant fish supply. However, these suggestions remain unconfirmed by wildlife experts or official sources.
Otters are a protected species in Thailand, and the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act stipulates strict penalties for hunting, capturing, trading, buying, advertising for sale, or keeping otters as pets. These offenses can lead to imprisonment of up to 10 years and/or fines of up to 1 million baht, with penalties for keeping them as pets being up to five years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to 500,000 baht.
As of the time of the report, no official explanation from government departments or wildlife experts had been provided regarding the significant presence of otters in the canal.