Swimmer Attacked by Otters at California Lake Calls for Wildlife Officials Intervention after Suffering 40 Punctures

Amidst rising concerns, victim calls for removal of otters from Serene Lakes after a second reported attack; wildlife officials attribute aggression to human encroachment and high fish population in the lake.

Matt Leffers, a swimmer in a California lake, Sierra Lakes, was attacked by river otters, leaving him with 40 puncture wounds; a second such incident reported in the area, sparking concern among locals about increased otter aggression.
Leffers, a long-time swimmer in the lake, calls for wildlife officials to address the situation, citing fear for his life during the attack and the immediate need for his wife’s intervention for rescue.
Otter attacks are rare, with 20 reported worldwide between 2011-2021, but growing instances mark the potential negative impact of human encroachment on otter habitats, often causing the creatures to perceive humans as threatening.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife links the unusual otter behavior to a high fish population in Serene Lakes, indicating abundant food sources may be attracting and emboldening the otters.
Leffers criticizes the department's response as insufficient and calls for immediate actions to prevent further attacks. The department plans to determine the otter population in Sierra Lakes before formulating a strategy.