Distribution and Habitat Conditions of Habitat Points of the Eurasian Otter Lutra lutra in the Hangang River Water System, South Korea

Researchers conducted this study to clarify the distribution and habitat conditions of the Eurasian otter Lutra lutra in. the Hangang water system, South Korea. Researchers evaluated a total 358 habitat sites widely distributed in the Hangang river water system. The altitudinal distribution ranges were similar in the Bukhangang and Namhangang areas. The width of river in habitat points ranged from 4-1,017 m. The mean water velocity was 0.32 +/- 0.15 m sec(-1). Habitat variables such as site condition, river width, bottom status, bankside vegetation, land use type, grass height, vegetation cover, artificial structures, water use and pollutants were significantly different among areas except for forest type and shrub height Furthermore, land use type, artificial structures, water use and pollutants were disturbance factors. To conserve the Eurasian otter and its habitat, the riparian habitat should be managed and conserved.