SIGHTING AND SIGNS OF THE SMALL-CLAWED OTTER (Aonyx cinereus ILLIGER, 1815) IN CILIWUNG RIVER, INDONESIA.

The small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus) is classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and has recently been upgraded to Appendix I on CITES due to significant population reduction and commercial trade. Despite increasing conservation efforts for otters worldwide, land conversion, waste, pesticides, and poaching pose significant threats to otter populations. Previous studies have identified the presence and habitat characteristics of Aonyx cinereus in various regions of Indonesia. However, more research still needs to be done on the Ciliwung River species. The field observation was carried out from August to October 2022; with most fieldwork happening in the rainy season, there are better times to sample otter markings. Spraints and latrine sites were the most commonly reported signs of otter presence. Two direct sightings of otters were made during the survey, one of a group of eight otters at Ciliwung Bridge and another of two otters searching for food along the riverbank at Blue Bridge. We confirmed the presence of otters in this area through visual encounters, sign surveys, and direct sightings. The proximity of Aonyx cinereus to settlements in the Jabodetabek region makes this species vulnerable to hunting. It is essential to preserve the Ciliwung River so that it may be passed on to future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]