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Abstract Lack of data on population sizes and resource requirements are major impediments to the effective conservation of rare species globally. The conservation of the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) in Hong Kong reflects many of these key challenges for elusive and difficult‐to‐study mammals. It is a rare carnivore that has narrowly escaped extirpation, now surviving within a human‐dominated environment. Using sign surveys and spraint analysis, we recorded only 40 fresh spraints from 246 otter signs locations, over 4 months of intensive sampling across 2 years. Records were restricted to the Mai Po wetlands, confirming this as the core area for Hong Kong's otter population. Molecular analysis and microsatellite genotyping identified a minimum of seven individuals, two pairs of which were likely related. The genetic and sign data together strongly indicate a small population. Fish dominated the otter diet, highlighting the importance of fishpond habitats as a premium foraging resource. Given the rapid changes surrounding the Mai Po area (especially the new Northern Metropolis Development Strategy), maintaining quality and connected habitats, in addition to sustaining commercial fishponds will be key to otter recovery and long‐term population viability in Hong Kong.

Abstract Exploitation of species for wildlife trade, including the demand for exotic pets (likely sourced from the wild or recent generations of captivity) is a major threat to biodiversity. Although not traditionally considered “pet keeping” countries, pet ownership is growing in Asia. Exotic animals are also appearing in cafes, which are growing in popularity and have the potential to impact wild populations by stimulating exotic pet trade. We identified 406 animal cafes across Asia, of which 27% housed exotic species, including mammals (e.g., otter, slow loris, meerkat), birds (e.g., owls, hawks, parrots), and reptiles (e.g., geckos, pythons, turtles). Of the 252 exotic species recorded, 46% were threatened either as classified by the IUCN Red List, having a decreasing population trend, and/or threatened by the pet trade. These results, alongside the alignment of cafe traits with recognized factors influencing exotic pet trade, demonstrate as yet unclear (but potentially dramatic) implications for conservation.

Abstract As urbanization globally drives mammals and carnivores into compact spaces, they will increasingly come into conflict with development and natural resource extraction pressures. The management of these populations is further complicated by difficulties in monitoring what are often rare and elusive species. We used local ecological knowledge (LEK) to collect data on the historical and current status of Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) in Hong Kong as well as determine how local fish farmers and residents perceived management and conservation issues surrounding the species. We found evidence for small population size and decline in numbers and distribution over recent decades for L. lutra. Fish farmers had extensive and familiar experience with otters and expressed largely negative opinions about otter impacts on fish stocks but positive attitudes towards their conservation. However, if otters were to have real or perceived effects on livelihood, then opinions about their conservation were mixed and cautious. In the context of the Pearl River Delta megacity, biodiversity is under high threat from development and urbanization. We here show the value of LEK and human dimensions of conservation in balancing the complex challenges of managing land for both local livelihoods and environmental stewardship.