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What is an Otter?

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

Otters are any of thirteen aquatic or amphibious mammal species in the subfamily lutrinae. They are carnivorous mammals related to weasels, and subsist on diets of fish, shellfish and small mammals. Otters live in rivers and oceans throughout the world, and are beloved for their charming appearance and abilities.

Probably the most recognizable member of the family is the Eastern and Northern Pacific sea otter. These ocean-going creatures lives in coastal regions along the western borders of North America and parts of Russia, and is notable for its eating habits. Sea otters often use rocks to pound open the shells of clams or crustaceans. Their habits are quite easily observed, as sea otters float on their backs at the surface, trying to smack their meals open. Much of the affection for sea otters is attributed to their care for pups, which they hug tightly to their chests as they swim.

The giant otter is capable of growing to over 6 feet in length.
The giant otter is capable of growing to over 6 feet in length.

Sea otters are considered to be a keystone species, vital to maintaining the ecological balance of coastal environments. Bottom dwelling sea-urchins make up a large proportion of sea otters’ diet. Urchins, when unharvested, multiply in huge numbers and can destroy fragile ecological systems such as kelp forests. The introduction of otters into urchin infested areas has been shown to restore the balance of the environment and promote species diversity.

Giant otters are found across South America.
Giant otters are found across South America.

The remaining twelve species of otter are usually classified together as river otters. All twelve feature long, powerful tails, which the marine species lacks. All species of otter have high metabolic rates, meaning they must constantly consume food in order to maintain body temperature and function in the water. Most species consume between 15% and 25% of their body weight each day. Unlike sea otters, which remain in the ocean almost constantly, river otters tend to stay close to land.

Otters are believed by some experts to have consistently playful personalities. Observations of the animals have shown that otters will slide repeatedly down snow-covered slopes, for no apparent reason other than enjoyment. Captive otters play with a variety of toys such as balls and frisbees. Some otters have even been known to have favorite toys in particular that they guard as possessions.

Some species of river otter appear to be monogamous, at least in captive environments. The Asian small-clawed species shares pup-raising duties between parents and older siblings. Pairs of this species will stay together through many breeding cycles, and may even form lifelong pair-bonds.

A rarely seen species is the giant otter of South America. These animals grow to be over 6 ft (2 m) long, and live in family groups of up to ten otters. They are quite noisy and are often referred to as river dogs for their persistent, carrying barks. Listed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN,) giant otters are threatened by habitat depletion, fur poaching and competition from fishermen for prey. Estimates suggest that giant otters have lost over 80% of their natural habitats, but recent efforts have been made by South American governments to federally protect some of their remaining home ranges.

Otters are beautiful and charming creatures, and their presence in the wild is often of vital importance to their natural environment. While some species maintain healthy populations, others, such as the giant otter and hairy-nosed otter of south Asia, are in danger of extinction. Conservation organizations to help otters are widespread, and always in search of donations and volunteers to aid their efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is an otter?

An otter is a semi-aquatic or aquatic mammal known for its playful behavior and remarkable agility in the water. Otters belong to the Mustelidae family, which also includes weasels, badgers, and wolverines. They have streamlined bodies, thick fur for insulation, and long tails that aid in swimming. Otters are carnivorous, feeding primarily on fish and invertebrates.

How many species of otters are there, and where can they be found?

There are 13 recognized species of otters distributed across various parts of the world. They inhabit a range of environments from freshwater rivers and lakes to marine coastal areas. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), otters can be found on every continent except Australia and Antarctica, with each species adapted to its unique habitat.

Are otters social animals?

Otters exhibit varying social behaviors depending on the species. For instance, sea otters are known to be quite social, often seen resting together in groups called rafts, which can number in the hundreds. In contrast, many freshwater otters are more solitary, coming together primarily for breeding. Social structures in otters are fascinating and can include complex communication and cooperative behaviors.

What do otters eat, and how do they hunt?

Otters are predominantly piscivorous, meaning their diet mainly consists of fish. However, they are opportunistic feeders and also consume amphibians, crustaceans, and small mammals. Otters are skilled hunters, using their dexterous paws, sharp claws, and sensitive whiskers to locate and capture prey. They can also dive to impressive depths and hold their breath underwater to pursue their catch.

How do otters contribute to their ecosystem?

Otters play a crucial role in their ecosystems as apex predators. By preying on fish and other aquatic species, they help maintain a balanced food web. Their hunting activities can also influence the population and health of species like urchins, preventing overgrazing on kelp forests and promoting biodiversity. Otters' presence can indicate a healthy environment, as they require clean, unpolluted water to thrive.

Are otters endangered, and what threats do they face?

Some otter species are indeed endangered, with habitat loss, pollution, and hunting posing significant threats to their populations. The IUCN Red List categorizes several otter species as vulnerable or endangered due to these factors. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect otter habitats and ensure the survival of these charismatic creatures for future generations to appreciate and study.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a AllThingsNature writer.

Learn more...
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a AllThingsNature writer.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

CellMania

@purplespark: A little more FYI: Sea otters are often referred to as the “old men of the sea” because of their long white whiskers on their face.

When baby otters are born, they are already almost as big as their mother.

DinoLeash

@purplespark: I find otters to be very fascinating animals. Here is a little more information for you:

Otters hunt by touch and sight. Their whiskers are extremely sensitive and can pick up vibrations of nearby fish. Their underwater vision is poor so their sensitive whiskers are very important for their hunting.

Otters are found on every continent except Australia and Antarctica. They are also the only marine animal that has fur instead of blubber. They must constantly groom their coats to keep them from being matted. A full grown otter’s fur can have up to 1 billion hairs.

wesley91

@purplespark: Here are a few facts that might earn you some extra points on your assignment:

There used to be 14 species of otters but Maxwell’s otter is now presumed to be extinct, leaving only 13 species. Many of the otter species are threatened or endangered.

River otters are pretty comfortably on land. However, sea otters can barely walk and hardly ever leave the water.

Sea otters normally eat up to 30% of their body weight each day. They are also natural swimmers and can stay underwater for up to 5 minutes.

PurpleSpark

I need some additional information on otters for a school report. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

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    • The giant otter is capable of growing to over 6 feet in length.
      The giant otter is capable of growing to over 6 feet in length.
    • Giant otters are found across South America.
      By: bogdanserban
      Giant otters are found across South America.