Singapore’s smooth-coated otter population is the subject of an ongoing, detailed census effort. The third national census, which relies on volunteer observations, is currently undergoing scientific review and is expected to be published later this year.
A Labor of Love
The census involves a network of dedicated otter watchers who photograph the animals and record their locations and family sizes. Marjorie Chong, an otter enthusiast and member of the Otter Working Group since 2017, described the challenges of this work. She once spent approximately 400 hours over two months searching for otters.
“The two months felt very long,” Ms. Chong said, “But we believed in it.”
Data collected by Ms. Chong and 20 other volunteers was verified by Michelle Tan, a life sciences student at the National University of Singapore (NUS). Ms. Tan completed the verification as part of her final-year project, submitted in April 2025.
Even experienced observers find the otters difficult to locate. Ms. Chong noted, “A refrain that you hear often is, oh the otters, they are everywhere… but when you actually count them, (they are) not that easy to find.” New observers, like Ms. Tan, received orientation from more experienced volunteers.
The census is particularly crucial given the remarkable comeback of Singapore’s otter population, which had disappeared by the 1970s. This resurgence has led to increased interactions between humans and otters.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Ms. Chong been watching otters?
Ms. Chong has been watching otters since 2017.
How many volunteers helped collect data for the census?
Twenty volunteers, in addition to Ms. Chong, helped collect data for the census.
When was Ms. Tan’s project submitted?
Ms. Tan submitted her project in April 2025.
As the census undergoes review, it remains to be seen what insights it will reveal about the current state of Singapore’s otter population and how best to manage their continued integration into the urban landscape.
