The Ourtal in Luxembourg: A port of peace in which the hope for the return of the otter whispers

With its clear water, its natural shores and its picturesque landscape, it embodies a river ecosystem of exceptional wealth. Today, when the challenges of biological diversity are more pronounced than ever, this valley has a significant potential for a symbolic and encouraging event: the return of the European otter.

The river Our with its winding course and its natural hydrological characteristics offers a habitat that is favorable for the European otter (Lutra Lutra) as a symbol type. The complex network of meanders, small altarms and flood areas creates a mosaic of water and bank habitats that are of crucial importance for the survival of the otter. The clear, fish -rich waters represent a rich source of food, while the natural banks, through their dense vegetation and through sunken roots and caves, potential locations for a otter building, the famous « Catiche », offer.

The otter, who historically occurred in the region, unfortunately suffered a drastic decline in the 20th century, which is mainly due to water pollution, the destruction of his habitat and direct persecution. His current lack of the Ourtal is an urgent memory of the man -made pressure that is exerted on our river ecosystems.

Encourable signs and real potential pave the way into a future in which the unobtrusive silhouette of the otter can slide over the surface of the Our. The continuing efforts of the past decades to improve the water quality of the river and its tributaries bear fruit. The reduction in pollutants and the introduction of measures to protect wetlands help to restore the general health of the river ecosystem.

In addition, the preservation of natural banks and the limitation of the canalization of rivers are key factors in order to offer the otter suitable reproductive and refuge. The diverse bank of the bank offers a good retreat against predators and human disorders.

Ecological connectivity is also a crucial aspect. As an ecological corridor, the Ourtal could make it easier to resist through otter populations, which occur in neighboring regions. The restoration of wetlands and the creation of wildlife passages along the infrastructure can strengthen this networking and give individuals the opportunity to distribute and settle.

To catch the return of the otter into the Our Valley is not just an ecological dream; It is a tangible goal that would testify to successful nature conservation efforts and the resistance of nature. The presence of this symbolic animal of our Belgian neighbors would enrich the biodiversity of the region, signal the recovered quality of its water and strengthen the wild and valuable character of this beautiful valley in Luxembourg. In the Ourtal you can hear the whisper of hope of such a return, and it is up to people to perceive this message and act so that the otter will one day find his home.