Giant Otter
Description
Protected by the following WLT projects:
- The Atlantic Rainforest, Brazil;
- Chaco/Pantanal project, Paraguay
- Misiones Rainforst Corridor, Argentina;
- The Ecuador Rainforests (Cerro Candelaria Reserve)
The Giant otter (sometimes called the Brazilian Otter) is known in Spanish as "Lobo Del Rio", or River Wolf, because of its colonial habits. It is generally regarded as the largest of the otter species: although the Marine Otter can weigh more, the Giant Otter has the longest body (sometimes reaching 6 feet from head to tail). It has a characteristic patch of cream fur on the throat and chin, the pattern of which differs between individuals; its fur is thick and velvety, reddish brown in colour, and is water repellent. They have typically short legs and a long rudder like tail which enable them to move swiftly, yet effortlessly, through the water.
Habitat
Endemic to South America Giant Otters are found in slow moving rivers, lakes and swamps, preferring gently sloped river banks and areas with over hanging vegetation.
Threats and Conservation
Although Giant Otters have no natural predators their numbers decreased dramatically between 1940 and 1970 as a result of hunting for their fur, and current threats come from habitat loss and pollution.
Help protect Giant Otter habitat: Make a donation to the WLT
Learn more
- See IUCN Red List of Threatened Species for more information on the classification of the Giant Otter.
- Videos: Giant Otter
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