All rights reserved. It lives only in the rivers and creeks of the Amazon, Orinoco, and La Plata river systems. Although giant otters don't have fins like a scuba diver or even fins like a fish, their four paws are webbed, creating a similar effect. They have brown, water-repellent fur, webbed feet and long, strong tails that help propel them through water. Create an account to start this course today. [63] It occurs in freshwater rivers and streams, which generally flood seasonally. April 12, 2023 / 11:04 AM / CBS News. The giant otter is the South American cousin to the sea and river otters of North America, as well as those of Europe and Africa. One report suggests maximum areas 28m (92ft) long and 15m (49ft) wide, well-marked by scent glands, urine, and feces to signal territory. It is one of the most endangered mammal species in the Neotropics. [70] One difference in behavior was seen in the country in 2002: the normally inquisitive giant otters showed "active avoidance behavior with visible panic" when boats appeared. [27] Its velvety feel makes the animal highly sought after by fur traders and has contributed to its decline. tree-bark mulch and soft pebble-free sand/soil). Ecotourism also presents challenges: while it raises money and awareness for the animals, by its nature it also increases human effect on the species, both through associated development and direct disturbances in the field. Here are seven facts you otter know about this South American member of the Mustelidae family. [75] The animal's relatively late sexual maturity and complex social life makes hunting especially disastrous. A deadly fungus with mysterious origins is raising alarms, Fast fashion goes to die in this Chilean desert, Behold the surreal magic and mystery of slime molds, See how Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr around the world, 'The Odyssey' offers more than just monsters and magic, The forgotten history of cats in the navy. A giant mass of seaweed threatens beach season in the U.S. What is aquaculture? Giant otters served as Yaku runa's canoes. If fish are unavailable, they will also take crabs, snakes, and even small caimans and anacondas. For the first time in two years, you'll be able to see otters at Ecomuseum Zoo in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. Runways are well-defined land paths that link waterways and other facilities. [48], The giant otter is an apex predator, and its population status reflects the overall health of riverine ecosystems. Like human families, these animals mate in monogamous pairs, living with large families in a gregarious lifestyle. Kosovo wants to decide its futurebut will history hold it back? [2] Given local extinctions, the species' range has become discontinuous. [49] Females have a gestation period of 65 to 70 days, giving birth to one to five pups, with an average of two. Who buys lion bones? Why are these fun loving creatures in such a bad situation? 2023 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Abstract. Parasites, such as the larvae of flies and a variety of intestinal worms, also afflict the giant otter. Giant otters are especially noisy and have a complex repertoire of vocalizations. Furthermore, its scientific name is Pteronura brasiliensis and it's the only species in this genus. It has no serious natural predators other than humans, although it must compete with other predators, such as the neotropical otter, jaguar, and various crocodilian species, for food resources. Celebrate A Conservation Success Story During Sea Otter Awareness Week!, Blogger, 2 Oct. 2017, natural-history-journal . [87], Throughout its range, the giant otter interacts with indigenous groups, who often practice traditional hunting and fishing. [47], Details of giant otter reproduction and life cycle are scarce, and captive animals have provided much of the information. The otter can attack from both above and below, swiveling at the last instant to clamp the prey in its jaws. Explore some characteristics of giant otters and learn fun facts. Photo by: Frank Hajek. Giant otters prefer habitats with non-floodable banks that have vegetation cover and where there is easy access to hunting places in relatively shallow waters. Although generally peaceful, the species is territorial, and aggression has been observed between groups. Their nostrils and ears close to keep water out, and waterproof fur keeps them warm. When chunks of forest are clearcut away, their habitat becomes disrupted, causing habitat fragmentation. They chase prey rapidly and tumultuously, with lunges and twists through the shallows and few missed targets. They are seen within the Amazon, Orinoco, and La Plata River systems and are found in slow-moving streams and rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes, as well as flooded forests during the rainy season. The giant otter shrew ( Potamogale velox ) is a semiaquatic, carnivorous afrotherian mammal. The giant otter is also rare in captivity; in 2003, only 60 animals were being held.[5]. A giant mass of seaweed threatens beach season in the U.S. What is aquaculture? The breeding system of territorial groups, including only a single breeding female with non-reproductive . The giant otter can grow to more than 6 feet (2 meters) long and 70 pounds (32 kg), nearly twice as large as its American counterparts. Habitat degradation and loss is the greatest current threat. Giant otters (genus Pteronura) are found mainly in slow-moving rivers and creeks within forests, swamps, and marshes. The giant otter has a handful of other names. [55], The longest documented giant otter lifespan in the wild is eight years. Amanda has taught high school science for over 10 years. This species is monogamous, and pairs stay together for life. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Up until the 1970's the giant otter was hunted for pelts used to make human coats, scarves and other cold weather apparel. Territories differ from home ranges. Most seem to prefer quiet ponds and sluggish streams. Males are between 1.5 and 1.7m (4ft 11in and 5ft 7in)in length from head to tail and females between .mw-parser-output .frac{white-space:nowrap}.mw-parser-output .frac .num,.mw-parser-output .frac .den{font-size:80%;line-height:0;vertical-align:super}.mw-parser-output .frac .den{vertical-align:sub}.mw-parser-output .sr-only{border:0;clip:rect(0,0,0,0);height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;padding:0;position:absolute;width:1px}1 and 1.5m (3ft 3+12in and 4ft 11in). The neotropical otter is active during twilight and darkness, reducing the likelihood of conflict with the diurnal giant otter. for females. The outdoor Montreal zoo is holding its grand opening of the new privately funded, $1.4-million river otter habitat today. A capacity for aggressive behavior should not be overstated with the giant otter. [59] If fish are unavailable, it will also take crabs, snakes, and even small caimans and anacondas. Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. [33] Concern over this endangered species has since generated a body of research. 1. and weighing just 1 to 5 kg (2.2-11 lbs.). Yes, really. By the end of this lesson you'll be able to describe the few places giant otters live, factors impacting their population and some interesting facts about their adaptations, lifestyle and behavior. Preserve Qubec's wildlife. Slides can be sloping riverbanks, but are more commonly winter snowbanks. Today you'll be learning about the giant otter. How magnesium affects your sleep and anxiety, Your eyes may be a window into early Alzheimer's detection, 6 hiking and biking trails to explore in the Alps this summer. for males and about 7 km (4.3 mi.) [22][23] Early reports of skins and living animals suggested exceptionally large males of up to 2.4m (7ft 10+12in); intensive hunting likely reduced the occurrence of such massive specimens. Decades of poaching for its velvety pelt, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, considerably diminished population numbers. otter, (subfamily Lutrinae), any of 13 species of semiaquatic mammals that belong to the weasel family ( Mustelidae) and are noted for their playful behaviour. [88], In Suriname, the giant otter is not a traditional prey species for human hunters, which affords some protection. In seasonally flooded areas, the giant otter may abandon campsites during the wet season, dispersing to flooded forests in search of prey. brasiliensis. In addition to their waterproof fur, giant otters also have webbed feet, long tails, nose and ear coverings for swimming, and vibrissae to detect prey. The established territory is then marked by the scent from the animals' anal glands. Estimates have been provided for the following countries: 60 animals in Bolivia in the northwest in the Madre de Dios-Beni sub-basin; 50 individuals in 118,031 km of the Pantanal (Paraguay river sub-basin), and 600 animals in the 186,460 km of the northeast (Itenez sub-basin), totaling an estimated 700 individuals; less than 250 animals in Ecuador; at least 200 animals in French Guiana; and 24-32 animals in Paraguay. Defence against intruding animals appears to be cooperative: while adult males typically lead in aggressive encounters, cases of alpha females guarding groups have been reported. Hums and coos are more reassuring within the group. French. Their fur is extremely soft and is a chocolate brown except for a pattern of large creamy white patches under their long neck, thought to be unique for each individual otter. Cape clawless otters are found in widely varying habitats, from dense rainforest to open coastal plain and semi-arid zones. Giant ottters are very sociable animals and often live in groups of up to 20 individuals. An analysis of dry season range size for three otter groups in Ecuador found areas between 0.45 and 2.79 square kilometres (0.17 and 1.08sqmi). This review provides a reference for future research work and a source of information for future restoration of giant panda habitat. For example, stress to the parents during cub-rearing due to inappropriate enclosure conditions has been the primary reason for cub neglect, abuse and infanticide. [83] Duplaix returned to the country in 2000 and found the giant otter still present on the Kaburi Creek, a "jewel" of biodiversity, although increased human presence and land use suggests, sooner or later, the species may not be able to find suitable habitat for campsites. Weight. The triplets were born on March 27 to parents Alexandra . The family members clear an area beside a stream for their living quarters, of up to 50 sq meters, usually near feeding sites. [29] The legs are short and stubby and end in large webbed feet tipped with sharp claws. The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is now home to nine giant otters, which is the most in a single zoo or wildlife park globally. Since the 1990s, the southwestern stock of Alaskan sea otters has experienced a dramatic (up to 70% population) decline, most likely due to increased predation by killer whales. It grows from 4.9 to 5.9 feet (1.5 to 1.8 meters) long. Historically, sea otters occupied a contiguous range from northern Japan, across the North Pacific, and down to Baja California, Mexico. [68], Adult giant otters living in family groups have no known serious natural predators, however there are some accounts of black caimans in Peru and yacare caimans in the Pantanal preying on giant otters. In captivity, this may increase to 17, with an unconfirmed record of 19. [70], Even if without direct predation, the giant otter must still compete with other predators for food resources. Yes, really. They are found on all continents except Australia and Antarctica. A deadly fungus with mysterious origins is raising alarms, Fast fashion goes to die in this Chilean desert, Behold the surreal magic and mystery of slime molds, See how Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr around the world, 'The Odyssey' offers more than just monsters and magic, The forgotten history of cats in the navy. Can we do the same? Habitat degradation and loss is the greatest current threat. River otters (genus Lutra) inhabit all types of inland waterways, as well as estuaries and marine coves. Duplaix documented interaction with the Neotropical otter. The constant need for food requires the family to work together. Plants can talk. Support the River otters. Elephants are learning to live with us. [2] Four specific vegetation types occur on one important creek in Suriname: riverbank high forest, floodable mixed marsh and high swamp forest, floodable low marsh forest, and grass islands and floating meadows within open areas of the creek itself. Elephants are learning to live with us. The giant otter seems to choose clear, black waters with rocky or sandy bottoms over silty, saline, and white waters. 23 chapters | The giant otter or giant river otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) is a South American carnivorous mammal. Females are smaller at 1-1.5m (3.3-4.9ft). year-round, peak in late spring-early summer. Quick hah barks or explosive snorts suggest immediate interest and possible danger. Very little information is available on worldwide population figures for freshwater otters. While revealing of the affection held for the animals, the seizure was a profound blow to the breeding pair, which went on to lose their territory to competitors. In Canto State Park, otters dig their reproductive dens on the shores of oxbow lakes starting around July, when waters are already quite low. The giant otter is almost 1.5 m long, with an additional metre provided by its tail. Researchers emphasize that even between groups, conflict avoidance is generally adopted. Also, there are two known subspecies: P. b. Brasiliensis and P. b. Paraguensis. The otters will have 6,000 square feet to play around in their new home. Giant otters live in groups up to 10 individuals, with groups comprising a monogamous pair and their offspring from several generations. The first ever giant river otter . Otters are widely distributed. There are 13 species in total, ranging from the small-clawed otter to the giant otter. [2] Populations in Bolivia were once widespread but the country became a "black spot" on distribution maps after poaching between the 1940s and 1970s; a relatively healthy, but still small, population of 350 was estimated in the country in 2002. [37], The giant otter is a highly social animal and lives in extended family groups. [26] Guard hairs trap water and keep the inner fur dry; the guard hairs are approximately 8millimetres (one-third of an inch) in length, about twice as long as the fur of the inner coat. - Anatomy, Family & Diet, Baikal Seal: Habitat, Adaptations, Predators & Facts, Ringed Seal: Habitat, Population & Adaptations, Signs, Symptoms & Causes of Bloat in Dogs, Order Primates: Lorises, Galagos, & Tarsiers, Middle School Life Science: Tutoring Solution, Middle School Life Science: Help and Review, High School Physical Science: Tutoring Solution, NY Regents Exam - Chemistry: Help and Review, CSET Foundational-Level General Science (215) Prep, UExcel Anatomy & Physiology: Study Guide & Test Prep, SAT Subject Test Chemistry: Practice and Study Guide, ILTS Science - Environmental Science (112): Test Practice and Study Guide, Study.com ACT® Test Prep: Practice & Study Guide, Potassium Bromide: Formula & Side Effects, What is a Benign Tumor? They look for fish and other aquatic animals, hunting skillfully in groups. The giant otter shows a variety of adaptations suitable to an amphibious lifestyle, including exceptionally dense fur, a wing-like tail, and webbed feet. [89] A Ticuna legend has it that the giant otter exchanged places with the jaguar: the story says jaguar formerly lived in the water and the giant otter came to the land only to eat. Unfortunately, humans are not quite as skilled at fishing and see giant otters as competition for valuable profits. All otters produce vocalizations, but by frequency and volume, the giant otter may be the most vocal. Otters mark their territories with scent. - Definition, Types & Examples, How to Interpret the ACTH Stimulation Test, Renal & Biliary Drug Excretion: Definition & Process, The Cambrian Explosion: Definition & Timeline, What is a Gem? A wavering scream may be used in bluff charges against intruders, while a low growl is used for aggressive warning. It turns out the thick, luscious fur that keeps them dry and warm has been a long coveted possession of humans. The survival of the giant otter populations in the Guianas is essential to the survival of this endangered species in South America. They are capable of spending their entire life at sea, but sometimes rest on rocky shores. [61] In some cases, supposed cooperative hunting may be incidental, a result of group members fishing individually in close proximity; truly coordinated hunting may only occur where the prey cannot be taken by a single giant otter, such as with small anacondas and juvenile black caiman. French. They prefer prey fish that are generally immobile on river bottoms in clear water. These animals are most active from 10-11 am and from 3-5 pm. [64], Giant otters use areas beside rivers for building dens, campsites, and latrines. The giant otter is an especially noisy animal, with a complex repertoire of vocalizations. In 2004, Peru created one of the largest conservation areas in the world, Alto Purs National Park, with an area similar in size to Belgium. Its distribution has been greatly reduced and is now discontinuous. Besides burrows, many river otters establish and use a variety of land "facilities" for a number of their daily activities. [69] Pups are more vulnerable, and may be taken by caiman and other large predators,[52] although adults are constantly mindful of stray young, and will harass and fight off possible predators.