Details for Giant Otter

• Giant Otter

  The Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) is the longest member of the weasel family and the largest otter species, native to the Amazon rainforest and other large river systems in South America. They can reach lengths of up to 1.7 meters (5.6 feet) and weigh up to 34 kg (75 lbs). Giant otters have a distinctive broad, flattened tail and a unique cream-colored throat patch that helps identify individuals. They are highly social, living in family groups, and are skilled hunters, primarily feeding on fish, but also on caimans and snakes. Their playful nature and strong social bonds are well-known, though they are endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.

  

  Habitat: The Giant Otter lives in Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Venezuela, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Suriname.