They are cute and playful and spend a lot of time in water, but also on land. These are otters we will learn about and even though some people confuse otters and beavers, they are not even family. You can read more about it here. Otters are family of weasels.
Beavers and otters might occupy the same sorts of aquatic habitats, and their ranges often overlap, but they are completely different animals. Even from a distance, it is straightforward to distinguish the two. They have different bodies, different diets and different roles in the ecosystem.
There are 13 species of otters and some species spend all their time in the water, while others live on land and in water. Their fur is nice and thick to keep them warm in the water. Some people hunt otters for their fur.
They can live up to 13 years in the wild and even they have a few natural predators, they are quick and and get away easily, especially if they have to swim.
Otters will spend a lot of time to hunt their prey and they will eat fish and crabs, frogs and shellfish. Many of the otters will carry a rock with them and they are intelligent enough to use it to crack open the shellfish or the clams.
- Have a look at how clever they are
Otter species range in size from the smallest Oriental small-clawed otter at 0.6 m (2 ft) and 1 kg (2.2 lb). Through to the large Giant otter and Sea otters who can reach 1.8 m (5.9 ft) and 45 kg (99.2 lb).
- Find some pictures and facts on these different types of otters and any other you want to learn more about.
Many animals that live in water or spend a long time, has some fat called 'blubber' that keeps them warm. An otter does not have it, but air is caught in its fur and that keeps them warm. You can read more about it here.
Blubber - the fat of sea mammals, especially whales and seals.
Otters are very playful and they will take part in activities just because they enjoy it. Otters have been spotted where they slide down rock just for entertainment.
The Japanese tells many stories of otters which they call 'kawauso' and in these stories they are usually fooling people and are as sly as a fox.
- Listen to the silly story just for fun.
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