Otters

Playful Animals of Rivers and Coastlines...

These freshwater or marine mammals appear to engage in playful activities for sheer enjoyment.

The otter is a carnivorous freshwater or marine mammal which is part of the Mustelidae family which includes weasels, martens, and badgers. Otters have long, slim bodies and sharp, webbed claws that they use to catch their prey.

Giant OtterGiant otter © Flickr user Paul J. Morris /Creative Commons
Giant Otter

Mostly active during the day, giant otters eat fish, caimans, aquatic mammals, and even anacondas hapless enough to be caught. Learn more

OttersRiver otters © Jack Mills
North American River Otter

A river otter can dive up to 60 feet deep and swim for a quarter of a mile before coming up to breathe. Learn more

Sea OtterSea Otters © Flickr user mikebaird /Creative Commons
Sea Otter

Sea otters may be distinguished from river otters by their flattened tails, flipper-like hind limbs, and propensity for floating belly-up. Learn more

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