Two otters were spotted in the Schelphoekgracht in Alkmaar, a city in the Netherlands. This sighting has drawn significant attention, as otters have been on the rise in the province for some time. However, according to a researcher from Landscape Noord-Holland, it is particularly noteworthy that these elusive creatures have now been seen in an urban environment.

Martha van der Horst, a local resident, first saw an otter on Friday evening near her house. “At first I thought it was a large piece of wood or a seal. When I looked closely, I saw that it was an otter,” she recounted. Initially, she believed it was a single otter, but later she spotted another one at the quay. She shared her observation with the regional broadcaster.

Kevin Raatjes, a researcher at Landschap Noord-Holland, emphasized the rarity of this sighting. “The animals are working very hard at the moment. In 2019 they entered the province, from the area of Almere towards Amsterdam. They used the coronation time to make the leap over the IJ,” he explained.

Very Shy and Elusive

Otters are known for their shy and elusive nature, making sightings in urban areas even more extraordinary. “The fact that there is now a report from Otters in Alkmaar means that they have made a big leap from the area of Volendam and Monnickendam. That makes it really special,” Raatjes noted.

Van der Horst immediately made a video of the otters, capturing the moment for posterity. “I haven’t seen them since that moment,” she added, highlighting the fleeting nature of such encounters.

Otters are nocturnal animals and typically do not show themselves during the day. They are usually resting in a sheltered place and are very shy. “They have often seen you faster than you do,” Raatjes explained. This makes spotting them a challenging task.

For those interested in seeing otters, the best chance is during the winter. “Then there is little vegetation on the waterfront. If you take a walk in the dark along the canal or sail, you might see them once,” Raatjes advised.

This sighting in Alkmaar is part of a broader trend of otters expanding their range in the Netherlands. Similar to the resurgence of otters in the United Kingdom and parts of the United States, this phenomenon can be attributed to conservation efforts and the reduction of pollution in waterways. In the U.S., otters have made a comeback in regions like the Chesapeake Bay and the Pacific Northwest, where environmental awareness and habitat restoration have played crucial roles.

The presence of otters in urban areas like Alkmaar raises questions about urban wildlife management. As cities become more aware of their role in supporting local ecosystems, initiatives such as green roofs, urban wetlands, and wildlife corridors are gaining traction. These efforts not only support biodiversity but also enhance the quality of life for urban residents.

In the U.S., cities like Seattle and Portland have implemented successful urban wildlife programs. Seattle’s Urban Wildlife Program, for instance, focuses on educating the public about coexisting with wildlife and reducing human-wildlife conflicts. Similarly, Portland’s Urban Wildlife Information Network provides resources and support for residents dealing with wildlife encounters.

While the sighting of otters in Alkmaar is a cause for celebration, it also underscores the importance of continued conservation efforts. As urban environments become more hospitable to wildlife, it is crucial to balance development with ecological sustainability. This means protecting natural habitats, reducing pollution, and promoting wildlife-friendly practices.

For those interested in learning more about otters and their conservation, organizations like the International Otter Survival Fund and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service offer valuable resources and opportunities for involvement. By supporting these efforts, individuals can contribute to the preservation of these fascinating creatures and their habitats.