On December 13, 2025, the EMC Foundation hosted a Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session in St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri), Mahaica. The session brought together community members and stakeholders who regularly interact with otters, as well as individuals interested in the conservation of this iconic species. This event forms part of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program within the Mahaica Watershed, which aims to strengthen conservation efforts for this endangered species through education, community engagement, monitoring, and research.
The session focused on raising awareness about otter ecology, threats to their survival, and the importance of community stewardship. Participants gained insights into the biology, behaviour, feeding habits, social structures, and breeding patterns of otters, with a particular focus on the Giant River Otter. Discussions also highlighted the critical role of freshwater ecosystems, such as rivers and wetlands, for both otters and the communities that rely on these waterways.
Led by Program Coordinator, Sarah Singh, and supported by Environmental Officers, Neesa Azam and Noah Sills, the session welcomed eleven participants, including village councillors, tourism operators, tour guides, fishermen, an environmental club member, and a Peace Corps volunteer.
The session began with a fun, interactive icebreaker titled “If you were an otter, what would you do all day?”, capturing participants’ interest while gauging their existing knowledge. This was followed by a presentation and group discussions on otter species in Guyana, their ecological roles, habitat characteristics, and major threats within the Mahaica Watershed.
Residents shared valuable local knowledge, confirming that both otter species found in Guyana, the Giant River Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) and the Neotropical River Otter (Lontra longicaudis), are present in the Mahaica River. They highlighted additional environmental concerns, such as saltwater intrusion during extreme dry seasons, which can impact freshwater habitats and food supplies for otters. Encouragingly, participants reported no conflicts with otters and noted that the animals are widely appreciated for their hunting and fishing skills, as well as their playful nature.
This Community Conservation Session is a key component of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program, supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation. Beyond raising awareness, it provides an important platform to connect with communities, gather local knowledge, and better understand the challenges affecting otters, other wildlife, and the broader environment.
Sarah Singh Facilitating the Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session at Pakuri
Sarah Singh Interacting with Attendees During the Session
Attendees Participating in the Activities Hosted During the Session
Attendees Participating in the Activities Hosted During the Session
The EMC Foundation was established by Mr. Shyam Nokta, winner of the 2022 Anthony N Sabga Award for Entrepreneurship. The Foundation works to support environmental awareness and education in Guyana by promoting activities which encourage a greater understanding of the environment, creating a network to connect like-minded persons, and providing opportunities to experience Guyana’s rich natural environment.