Tourism in ANP and ZA

giant otter - peru - manu - conservation

Giant Otters are one of the biggest attractions for visiting tourists interested in wildlife; they are the only large predator of the Amazon that can be seen reliably due to their diurnal habits, small home ranges and predictable habitats. This popularity means that lakes with Giant Otters near toruism lodges may recieve thousands of visitors per year. This can be very harmful for the otters if not correctly managed and result in the Giant Otters failing to breed due to stress from disturbance. In lakes where tourism is well-managed the Giant Otters can become remarkably tolerant of tourism and breed successfully whilst providing a great wildlife experience for many visitors.

Good tourism management for Giant Otters involves zoning of the lakes to give the Giant Otters an area where they can breed in which they will not be disturbed. The main threat comes from disturbance near to the breeding den and when they have small cubs. Minimum observation distances should also be respected so that the otters can feed and rest without being disturbed. It is very easy for a guide to feel pressure from tourists for a “better” sighting and approach too close and it is important that both tourists and guides become aware of the damage this can do.

Giant Otter Tourism Guidelines

• Respect Refuge Zones on lakes – these are designed to protect the areas with breeding dens of Giant Otters.
• Do not approach dens or resting areas on the shore.
• Respect the Minimum Observation Distance. Approach slowly from 100 m. Maintain a distance of 50 m from Giant Otters and 70 m if they have small cubs.
• Remain quiet whilst watching Giant Otters.
• Follow Guide and Park Guard instructions.