Johann Hunt
Otters are undeniably adorable with their playful antics and whiskered faces. But beyond the cuteness, they’re a surprising bunch! They have a fascinating world, and you’ll be surprised by what you’ll learn about their hidden talents, family ties, and vital role in the ecosystem. Get ready to love them more as you learn about them with these 15 facts!
Diverse Bunch
There are 13 different otter species worldwide! These include the African clawless otter, the giant river otter of South America (the largest otter species), and the sea otter, famous for its dense fur and tool use.
Unexpected Relatives
Otters are part of the Mustelidae family. This carnivorous family also includes weasels, wolverines, badgers, and skunks!
Global Citizens
You’ll find otters in Africa, Asia, and North and South America. Around 90% of sea otters are in Alaska. Three species are from Asia. The North American otter is prominent in North America. Africa has at least three kinds.
Fur Champions
Otters hold the record for having the densest fur of any animal on Earth! Up to 1 million hairs can be found on a single square inch of their fur. This thick coat helps them to stay warm in the frigid waters.
Seafood Specialists (Mostly)
Most otter species are carnivores that depend heavily on fish and crustaceans for food. Sea otters are particularly fond of sea urchins, clams, and mussels.
Not Just Seafood Fans
Giant otters are unique in their food choices. Like their kind, they enjoy fish and crustaceans, but they have a more varied diet that includes rodents, birds, and reptiles. Some otters even eat fruit!
Tool Time Champions
Sea otters use tools impressively. They use rocks to pry open clams and other shellfish. They even store these rocks in special pouches under their forearms for later use!
Cleanliness is Key
Otters spend a good amount of time grooming themselves. As they keep their fur clean and free of debris, they enjoy the insulation it offers better.
Sleeping Buddies
When it’s time to hit the bed, sea otters often tie themselves with kelp to remain afloat and tie themselves with it to prevent them from drifting away. They may hold hands while sleeping to stay close to each other. A group of otters at rest is called a raft.
Super Swimmers
Otters are agile and powerful swimmers. Giant otters can reach speeds of up to 9 miles per hour, and sea otters also hit impressive speeds! Webbed feet and streamlined bodies are some things that help otters swim better.
Deep Divers
Even though otters primarily hunt in shallow waters, river otters can hold their breath for as long as 8 minutes. The longer they stay there, the more sensitive they are to prey and forage. They can dive 60 feet deep!
Vocal Creatures
Otters are quite vocal and communicate with one another using a variety of whistles, squeaks, and growls. The Amazon’s giant otters have over 20 call types. These sounds help them express their emotions or know when an otter is threatened.
Playful Personalities
The first thing you probably heard about otters is that they are playful—and it’s true. They love to frolic in the water, chase each other, and slide down muddy banks. This behavior is not just for fun; it also helps them develop important social and survival skills.
Important Role in the Ecosystem
Otters play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Sea otters, for example, help preserve kelp forests by preying on sea urchins that overgraze the kelp.
Not Just Nocturnal
Otters are both diurnal and nocturnal. Sea otters are typically diurnal, while clawless otters are fairly nocturnal, but river otters may be either
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