Otter killed by traffic becomes symbol at Portuguese reserve

An otter that gave its name to the Projecto Lontra died after being hit by a vehicle near the Paul de Tornada reserve in Caldas da Rainha. Preserved through taxidermy by Eduardo Cruz under an agreement with the municipality, the animal will remain on display for educational purposes. It will be presented on 2 July, as the reserve marks its 17th anniversary, in an event featuring camera-trap footage of resident otters and a guided tour. Organisers say the case highlights wildlife roadkill, one of the main causes of death for protected species in Portugal.