The potential role of social media in support of otter conservation in the Indian Himalayan biodiversity hotspots

Anthropogenic stressors in the Indian Himalayan biodiversity hotspot over recent
decades have taken a toll on otter populations. Low public awareness and a lack of
routine monitoring data hamper conservation strategies. Social media has the
potential to generate both positive and negative perceptions about otter species
among target stakeholder groups. This approach can serve as a tool to generate vital conservation information and promote public knowledge and interest. This paper examines the role of social media as a tool to reinforce contemporary conservation initiatives, advocating its stronger utilisation for the potential protection of otter species in the Indian Himalayan biodiversity hotspot. The proposed approach is also maintained through a case study from the region.