The three Guianas remain the last stronghold of giant otters in South America, with pristine giant otter habitat on some rivers and good giant otter densities overallstill, but for how long? Why are these fun loving creatures in such a bad situation? Can gum infections trigger arthritis symptoms? It is the longest member of the weasel family, Mustelidae, a globally profitable group of predators, reaching as much as 1.7 meters (5.6 ft). The giant otter shows a variety of adaptations suitable to an amphibious lifestyle, including exceptionally dense fur, a wing-like tail, and webbed feet. Known throughout much of their range as 'river wolf', they are amongst South America's top carnivores. These whiskers are extremely sensitive and can detect small changes in current, allowing them to detect their prey without even seeing them. However, otters have another important sensory organ at their disposal, called vibrissae. [84] (One researcher has suggested the giant otter is hunted only in desperation due to its horrible taste. They look for fish and other aquatic animals, hunting skillfully in groups. [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. It is the longest member of the weasel family, Mustelidae, a globally successful group of predators, reaching up to 1.7 metres (5.6ft). Slides offer quick access to water or other facilities. Elephants are learning to live with us. March. Photo story: the flavours of Oman's Ad Dakhiliyah region, 7 hands-on food and drink experiences to try in Italy, Behind the fairytales: a journey into the Black Forest, Hitting new heights: learn how to be an Alpinist in Chamonix, Photograph by Charlie Hamilton James, Nat Geo Image Collection, The secret superpowers of elephants, in stop motion, Video Story, Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic Society, Copyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. Decades of poachingfor its velvety pelt, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, considerably diminished population numbers. Charismatic, vocal, unpredictable, domestic, and playful are all adjectives that aptly . Alaska sea otters inhabit the coast of Alaska, including the Aleutian Islands, and south along British Columbia and Washington. [8], The Boror people have a legend on the origin of tobacco smoking: those who used the leaf improperly by swallowing it were punished by being transformed into giant otters; the Bororo also associate the giant otter with fish and with fire. It is found in the main rainforest block of central Africa from Nigeria to Zambia, with a few isolated populations in Kenya and Uganda. [44][45] Within groups, the animals are extremely peaceful and cooperative. The other two clawless otters are similar in size to river otters. [5] At Tierpark Hagenbeck in Germany, long-term pair bonding and individualized mate selection were seen, with copulation most frequently taking place in water. At night, they retreat back to their river bank den, getting some much needed rest after a day of swimming. - Definition, Types & Properties, Aluminum Hydroxide: Formula & Side Effects, Soil Contamination: Treatment, Phytoremediation & Bioremediation, Soil Contamination: Definition, Sources & Prevention, Working Scholars Bringing Tuition-Free College to the Community. [78] Duplaix relates the story of an Arawak Indian who took two pups from their parents. An average giant otter will weigh between 22 and 32kg (49-71lbs). Home ranges vary in size with species, location, and resource distribution, and are generally larger for males. 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. Plants can talk. Giant otters are mammals related to the weasel family. 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. Eurasian otters are found throughout most of Europe, Asia, and North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia). [60], The species can hunt singly, in pairs, and in groups, relying on sharp eyesight to locate prey. The decline in more typical killer whale prey species has led some killer whales to switch to feeding on sea otters. The giant otter ranges across north-central South America; it lives mostly in and along the Amazon River and in the Pantanal. Weight. Giant otters are found throughout almost all of South America. Giant otters are large aquatic carnivores that inhabit rivers and seasonal lakes in South America. [1] P. b. brasiliensis is distributed across the north of the giant otter range, including the Orinoco, Amazon, and Guianas river systems; to the south, P. b. paraguensis has been suggested in Paraguay, Uruguay, southern Brazil, and northern Argentina,[14] although it may be extinct in the last three of these four. [2] Typically, loggers first move into rainforest, clearing the vegetation along riverbanks. It then slopes upward to a nest chamber above the high-water level. Some pups in the wild are taken for pets and usually die because of the inexperience of caretakers. Unauthorized use is prohibited. The giant otter is native only to the Amazon, Orinoco, and La Plata river systems in South America. Preserve Qubec's wildlife. A wildlife park in the U.K. welcomed a "surprise" litter of otter triplets. They take a nap at mid-day during really warm weather. [34] Duplaix identified nine distinct sounds, with further subdivisions possible, depending on context. The triplets were born on . They appear in a fish poisoning legend where they assist a man who has wasted his sexual energy, creating the anacondas of the world from his distressed and extended genitals. [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. It turns out the thick, luscious fur that keeps them dry and warm has been a long coveted possession of humans. The male giant otter is between 4.9 and 5.6 feet long from head to tail and weighs 57-71 pounds while the female is between 3.3 and 4.9 feet and weighs 49-57 pounds. Support the River otters. 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. from shore. - 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? Giant otters are especially noisy and have a complex repertoire of vocalizations. Each animal may eat six to nine pounds of food per day. Giant otters have been hunted extensively and wild populations are at-risk. It is the noisiest otter species, and distinct vocalizations have been documented that indicate alarm, aggression, and reassurance. Quick hah barks or explosive snorts suggest immediate interest and possible danger. Cape clawless otters inhabit the southern two-thirds of the African continent. [5] Other sources have found greater intervals, with as long as 21 to 33 months suggested for otters in the wild. The animal is susceptible to a variety of diseases, including canine parvovirus. Unknown. Fish from the order Perciformes, particularly cichlids and perch, were seen in 97% of scats, and Characiformes, such as characins, in 86%. Webbed feet and powerful tails, which act like rudders, make otters strong swimmers. Other countries have taken a lead in designating protected areas in South America. Three giant otter pups were recently born at Yorkshire Wildlife Park (YWP) in the United Kingdom, a big win for the endangered species. [59] If fish are unavailable, it will also take crabs, snakes, and even small caimans and anacondas. Despite the fact that it is a hydroelectric lake, the water level can vary annually . [18] (The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) is the fourth Lontra member.) Full. [29] The legs are short and stubby and end in large webbed feet tipped with sharp claws. Can we do the same? They will seek a peaceful place (or "picnic spot") to eat their prey. The burrow's main entrance may be under water. [15] P. b. paraguensis is supposedly smaller and more gregarious, with different dentition and skull morphology. 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. Is the giant otter endangered? Can gum infections trigger arthritis symptoms? How U.S. abortion laws went from nonexistent to acrimonious, These Native Americans were taken from their families as children. California sea otters are found off the coast of central California; between Half Moon Bay and Pt. The IUCN Red List has no current estimate for the total Giant otter population. [13] Later gene sequencing research on the mustelids, from 2004, places the divergence of the giant otter somewhat later, between five and 11million years ago; the corresponding phylogenetic tree locates the Lontra divergence first among otter genera, and Pteronura second, although divergence ranges overlap. Habitat degradation and loss is the greatest current threat. Want the full story? [63], Local people sometimes take pups for the exotic pet trade or as pets for themselves, but the animal rapidly grows to become unmanageable. Giant otters Pteronura brasiliensis are semiaquatic mammals that mainly eat fish, the abundance of which is affected by seasonal flooding and habitat structure. SeaWorld And Busch Gardens Conservation Fund. It has the greatest body length of any species in the mustelid family, although the sea otter may be heavier. [63] Duplaix identified two critical factors in habitat selection: food abundance, which appears to positively correlate to shallow water, and low sloping banks with good cover and easy access to preferred water types. Learn about the giant river otter's habitat, population, and behavior. They must carefully groom their fur and furry undercoat to keep them clean and sealed off to water, because theyre, Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. Though most live in freshwater rivers, lakes, and wetlands, the sea otter and the smaller marine otter are found in the Pacific Ocean. Sea otters (genus Enhydra) are found in coastal waters of the North Pacific, rarely more than 1 km (0.6 mi.) Strolling from their dwelling down to the river, the parents supervise as older siblings play with the youngsters, frolicking in the water and on the banks. The new arrivals were born on March 27 and are still under the care of doctors. The piscivorous habits of giant otters lead to negative human perception and conflicts with fisheries. The otter has a lithe and slender body with short legs, a strong neck, and a long flattened tail that helps propel the animal gracefully through water. They are found on all continents except Australia and Antarctica. These can become quite extensive, including "backdoor" exits into forests and swamps, away from the water. In coastal areas, they are known to forage both at sea and in adjoining streams and marshes. 5 years and older. Fish are supplemented by crustaceans, snakes, and other river creatures. In Brazil it is known as ariranha, from the Tup word ari'raa, meaning water jaguar (Portuguese: ona-d'gua). Well suited for an aquatic life, it can close its ears and nose while underwater. Sometimes this can lead to fisherman killing the giant otters to ward off such competition. This review provides a reference for future research work and a source of information for future restoration of giant panda habitat. Plants can talk. Today you'll be learning about the giant otter. - 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? [62] The spectacled caiman is another potential competitor, but Duplaix found no conflict with the species in Suriname. Chris Oberholtz. Male giant otters average 26 to 34 kg (57-75 lbs. 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. Most species are entirely dependent on aquatic habitats for food. A population of Giant otter was studied in the central Brazilian Amazon at the Xixua Reserve, Roraima (048'S, 6133'W), in order to gather preliminary information on spatial use of habitat. [48], Mothers give birth to furred and blind cubs in an underground den near the river shore and fishing sites. Quick hah barks or explosive snorts suggest immediate interest and possible danger. The giant otter is the longest species in the mustelid family. The first ever giant river otter . The Alaska otter has a greater tendency to haul out (come to shore) than the California otter. The giant otter is found in South America in a range of countries including Peru, Venezuela and Brazil. for males and about 7 km (4.3 mi.) [26] The nose (or rhinarium) is completely covered in fur, with only the two slit-like nostrils visible. [58] The giant otter seems to be opportunistic, taking whatever species are most locally abundant. Territories are generally smaller than home ranges. 535-640 mm. Prey species found were also sedentary, generally swimming only short distances, which may aid the giant otter in predation. [7] All four names are in use in South America, with a number of regional variations. [19] Giant otter fossil remains have been recovered from a cave in the Brazilian Mato Grosso. The giant otter, a native of South America, is listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Although generally peaceful, the species is territorial, and aggression has been observed between groups. [85][86] Bolivia designated wetlands larger than the size of Switzerland as a freshwater protected area in 2001; these are also home to the giant otter. [2] A significant population lives in the wetlands of the central Araguaia River, and in particular within Canto State Park, which, with its 843 oxbow lakes and extensive flooded forests and marshlands, is one of the best habitat patches for this species in Brazil. Cape clawless otters do not dig burrows. California otters often prefer kelp beds, probably because of the protection and food resources they provide. All group members may aggressively charge intruders, including boats with humans in them. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. [48] Pups open their eyes in their fourth week, begin walking in their fifth, and are able to swim confidently between 12 and 14 weeks old. . A wavering scream may be used in bluff charges against intruders, while a low growl is used for aggressive warning. Marine otters live along the Pacific coast of South America, ranging from northern Peru to Tierra del Fuego. Full. There are 1-5 pups in a litter (usually 2-3) and they stay in the family den until they are 2-3 weeks old. A family has a home range of 12 sq. A home range is the portion of land and water that an animal frequently visits during its daily and seasonal activities. These consist of a dominant breeding pair, their offspring from several litters, and sometimes unrelated non-breeding adults. When chunks of forest are clearcut away, their habitat becomes disrupted, causing habitat fragmentation. Because of their size and speed of swimming, Giant otters are successful in competing for fish with Black caimans and jaguars. As humans, we rely heavily on eyesight to get around in the world. [13] The giant otter shares the South American continent with three of the four members of the New World otter genus Lontra: the Neotropical river otter, the southern river otter, and the marine otter. Create an account to read the full story and get unlimited access to hundreds of Nat Geo articles. 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. Giant Brazilian Otter populations in Uruguay and Argentina are thought to be extinct. Activity. Among the Achuar people, they are known as wankanim,[8] among the Sanum as hadami[9][10] and among the Makushi as turara. [81], The giant otter has lost as much as 80% of its South American range. The giant otter subsists almost exclusively on a diet of fish, particularly characins and catfish, but may also eat crabs, turtles, snakes and small caimans. Schoolchildren, however, had a more positive impression of the animal. The giant otter is diurnal, being active exclusively during daylight hours. The groups are centered on a dominant breeding pair and are extremely cohesive and cooperative. [5] They are weaned by nine months and begin hunting successfully soon after. These huge. Sizeable burrows are then built under fallen logs. Most seem to prefer quiet ponds and sluggish streams. Illegal killing still occurs, often at the hands of fishermen, who see Giant otters as competition for fish. Kosovo wants to decide its futurebut will history hold it back? They prefer waterways that have gently sloping banks and good cover. [48] The animal reaches sexual maturity at about two years of age and both male and female pups leave the group permanently after two to three years. Otters are usually found no more than a few hundred meters from water. Prey chase is rapid and tumultuous, with lunges and twists through the shallows and few missed targets. Giant Otter This South American otter is the world's largest, at some 6 feet long. Asian small-clawed otters occur in fresh and brackish water habitats including rivers, creeks, estuaries, and coastal waters. Habitat fragmentation and loss, as well as pollution, are the current major threats to the Giant otter, as the areas where they live are degraded and destroyed by logging, mining, and damming. Habitat. The species was so thoroughly decimated, the number dropped to just 12 in 1971. [16] Biologist Nicole Duplaix calls the division of "doubtful value". They dwell in flooded forests, slow moving rivers, streams, lakes and swamps. Insufficient land area proportions and unsuitable substrate conditions in zoos have historically been the primary cause of high cub mortality and physical and behavioral health problems among giant otters. Congo clawless otters inhabit equatorial Africa, from southeastern Nigeria to Gabon, down to Uganda and Burundi. [47], Suriname still has significant forest cover and an extensive system of protected areas, much of which protects the giant otter. [61] Carter and Rosas have found captive adult animals consume around 10% of their body weight dailyabout 3 kilograms (7lb), in keeping with findings in the wild. Decades of poaching for its velvety pelt, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, considerably diminished population numbers. Yes, really. Rolling places are bare patches of ground where otters roll and groom. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) considers the species' presence in Argentina and Uruguay uncertain. Otters play a significant role in their representative habitats, which include giant kelp forests and rocky shorelines. One report found between three and eight campsites, clustered around feeding areas. 04. Although there is somewhat limited data about the exact number of giant otters in the wild, scientists agree that they are an endangered species, in danger of going extinct. 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