25 April 2025, Friday - Caution to Golfers: Otter Alert, Stay Safe

With the prevalence of otters in our midst, we share some tips with golfers to stay alert, vigilant, and safe.

Since 2017, the otter population in Singapore has more than doubled to at least 170 otters in an unprecedented surge. Two species of otters exist locally; the Oriental Small Clawed Otter, and the Smooth-coated Otters. We are calling on golfers to stay alert, vigilant and safe.

Otters have been spotted at East Coast Park, Changi Beach Park, Punggol Waterway Park, Coney Island among others. Otters are highly territorial by nature, and may become aggressive if they feel threatened or cornered. Since 2021, there have been reports of otter-related incidents, ranging from multiple scratches, to bite wounds on the upper and lower limbs.

Here are some strategies that golfers can embrace to safeguard their well-being in the presence of otters.

Strategies to Stay Safe in the Presence of the Otters

X Do Not

Walk too close to the otters
Chase, disturb, or corner the otters, as the parents are protective of their young.
Talk loudly
Use flash photography, noise and light may scare and provoke the otters
Feed the otters - they have food in the environment to keep the ecosystem healthy
Litter or leave sharp objects in the water - clean waterways filled with fish and aquatic life make good habitats for the otters to frolic and feed in.

√ Do

Observe them from a distance
Alert others nearby

If Attacked or Bitten

Consult a doctor immediately

Source: National Parks Board