Jungle Animals – Giant Otter
Name:
giant otter
Scientific name:
Pteronura brasiliensis
Condition:
In danger of extinction
Scientific classification:
Animal Kingdom
Edge: Chordata
Class: Mammals
Order: Carnivores
Family: Mustelidae
Gender: pteronura
Species: P. brasiliensis
General information:
The giant otter is an amphibian carnivore and one of the largest members of the mustelidae family. Although the longest of the weasel family, the sea otter is heavier. In their native Amazonian habitats, the giant otter is an apex predator and is exclusively active during the day (diurnal). Although once abundant in South America, its numbers have been greatly reduced, and current estimates generally list its wild population at less than 5,000. The giant otter has been hunted for its fur and its habitat has been severely degraded. It is listed as an “endangered species”.
Physical description:
The male otter can be between 4.9 and 5.9 feet long, and the female is generally slightly smaller, between 4.9 and 5.6 feet long. Some exceptionally massive specimens once reportedly occurred at nearly 8 feet, but hunting has likely reduced the existence of such large specimens. Male otters weigh around 57 to 70 pounds and females around 48 to 57 pounds. Its fur is short and dense, and it is brown in color. It also has a velvety texture, which has made the giant otter a prized victim of fur poachers. There are also light colored markings on its throat, which are unique and allow identification of specific individuals from birth.
Diet:
Giant otters feed on fish and supplement their diet with crustaceans, small snakes, and even alligators. An adult can eat up to 10 pounds of fish per day. They hunt alone and in groups.
Habitat:
Giant otters are found in freshwater habitats that are often found in forested regions. They prefer rivers, lakes, and flooded areas where the water currents are gentle. It is primarily terrestrial, but is amphibious in nature. It has lost up to 80% of its original range in the South American Amazon, but still currently inhabits areas of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.
Reproduction:
The gestation period lasts around 65–70 days, after which 1–5 (averaging 2) young are born. The giant otter reaches sexual maturity at around 2 years of age. Males are actively involved in raising the young, as are older younger brothers.