UCLA

The Central Asian subspecies of the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra subsp. seistanica) is among the most threatened otter taxa within its global range. In Kazakhstan, its status remains poorly documented despite legal protection. We assessed the current distribution and conservation status of the subspecies based on field surveys conducted in 2024–2026, complemented by historical data and verified reports. Surveys following standard IUCN Otter Specialist Group protocols were conducted primarily within the Ili River Basin. The results indicate that L. l. seistanica persists in Kazakhstan as a small population with a fragmented distribution. Contemporary records are concentrated within the Ili River system, including sections of the Chilik River, parts of the Ili River within Altyn-Emel National Park, and localized areas along the Kapchagay Reservoir. Outside the Ili Basin, presence was confirmed only in the Karatal River. Major threats include hydrological alteration, degradation of riparian habitats, disturbance, illegal fishing, invasion of American mink, and increasing interactions with aquaculture facilities. These findings indicate a high risk of further decline and highlight the urgent need for targeted monitoring, habitat protection, and conflict-mitigation measures.