The WWF is run at a local level by the following offices...
- WWF Global
- Adria
- Argentina
- Armenia
- AsiaPacific
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Belgium
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Borneo
- Brazil
- Bulgaria
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Canada
- Caucasus
- Central African Republic
- Central America
- Central Asia
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Croatia
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Denmark
- Ecuador
- European Policy Office
- Finland
Our News
World Otter Day Celebrated in Rajapur, Bardia: Community United for Conservation
The event featured a rally through the town, where participants carried banners and chanted slogans to raise awareness about the urgent need to conserve otters, their riverine habitats, and prey base. The rally was preceded by an awareness session covering the basics of “What is an Otter?”, its ecological importance, the threats to its survival, and how communities can contribute to its protection. Around 70 participants gathered in Rajapur-3, Bardiya, uniting local communities, stakeholders, youth groups, and government representatives in a joint effort to promote awareness of otters and their significance in freshwater ecosystems.
“Protecting otters means protecting our rivers, culture, and future. These species are deeply rooted in our culture, and by conserving them, we ensure healthy waterways for generations to come.”
— Ram Swarup Chaudhary, Dolphin Conservation Centre
During the session, speakers emphasized that otters are key indicators of healthy river ecosystems and stressed the importance of protecting the Lower Karnali River and its tributaries from pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction. Participants learned how community-led efforts and sustainable practices can play a vital role in otter conservation.
“Conservation and community go hand in hand. The recent discovery of the Asian small-clawed otter after nearly two centuries is a living testament to the integral role communities play in conservation. We must build a society where coexistence is not just a concept, but a shared reality. We, who have been living along the banks of the Lower Karnali, are a role model for how it can—and must—be done. Therefore, we must join hands to protect these gifts of Mother Nature.”- Bijayraj Shrestha, Dolphin Conservation Centre.
A highlight of the event was a conservation pledge, where all attendees signed a public commitment to protect local aquatic biodiversity, reduce harmful fishing practices, and promote peaceful coexistence with nature. This pledge symbolized collective responsibility and marked a significant step toward stronger community-based conservation in the region.
The celebration was held under WWF Nepal’s project “Strengthening Communities’ Livelihood and Stewardship to Conserve Otters in Karnali,” funded by the UK Government through the Darwin Initiative.
© WWF Nepal/ Aashish Kapali
Conservation Rally celebrating Otter Day 2025.
© WWF Nepal/ Aashish Kapali
Signing of the pledge board on occasion of World Otter Day 2025.