Otter-proofing towards Coexistence in Seletar Hills Estate

Since smooth-coated otters arrived at Seletar Hills in 2021, the Otter Working Group (OWG), which comprises NParks, ACRES, otter watchers and Mr Sivasothi (NUS Department of Biological Sciences), had been monitoring the situation. From May 2022, more reports of otter sightings and home intrusions in the estate were received. Hence, Grassroots Adviser Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin, together with Cheng San-Seletar Constituency Office (CO), contacted OWG to work together to address the situation.

 A major challenge faced by residents was in otter-proofing their homes. From May to December 2022, the team conducted door-to-door visits, a hybrid engagement session, a roadshow at the area, and also otter-proofing trials at two affected houses. Otter-proofing mesh was installed at trial sites to prevent otters from entering the compound.

While residents had reservations about the cost and aesthetics of otter-proofing solutions, the trials showed that otter-proofing may be as simple as putting an inconspicuous panel at the bottom of the main gate. Preliminary footage from camera traps installed by NUS research students showed that the measures did discourage otters from entering the same house.