ON THE PRESENCE, CONSERVATION STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE OTTER (Lutra lutra) IN THE SEMANI RIVER WATERSHED

A study on the presence, distribution and conservation status of the otter (Lutra lutra) in the Semani river watershed, including Devolli and Osumi rivers and their main tributaries has been conducted during 2009-2011. River sections of upper, middle and lower Devolli, Osumi and Semani, their main tributaries of Devolli, (Perroi i Malesise, Dusharit, Graboves, Verces, Tomorrices, Holtes), Gjanica as well as a number of lakes and water reservoirs included in the watershed of Semani river have been surveyed. Data on the presence and territorial marking intensity have been collected and assessed. Changes in the distribution patterns of the otter by seasons and water level fluctuations in the main rivers have been reported. Otter is present in Devolli and Osumi river, and lower sections of their main tributaries, although in low abundance. It is not present nearby the main urban areas such as Gramsh, Çorovode, Berat and Ura Vajgurore. Surprisingly, otter is present, although in very low abundance, in most of Semani river. Gjanica river has no signs of otter presence, due to long time impacts of oil industry in the river biota. Otter is also present in some water reservoirs included in the Semani river watershed, showing its opportunistic behaviour and adaptation strategies to survive in a very dynamic and challenging environment.