Giant Otters are native to South America (mainly in Iwokrama Forest, live in large rivers and tropical rain forests). These otters are the biggest and the rarest among all otters, they can grow as long as a rather tall man, but their weight is poor (approximately 70 pounds), that is why these animals are so sleek. These rare creatures are commonly called “water dogs”, “river wolves” and they live in very remote and forested regions far from people. I think, it is a real pleasure, to watch them diving and playing with their shiny wet fur glistening in the sunlight. Ears and eyes possess such a form in order to prevent them from water.

Now, the most exciting facts!!! Fur of the otter is waterproof. They possess incredible webbed feet and long tails. Otters are very vocal and noisy animals. There is a light spot on the throat area. Giant otters need not less than ten pounds of food each day and they never save it for the rainy day. Otters are capable hunters and should the opportunity present itself, they will never miss it. Beware! As a rule, Giant Otters live nearly 12 years in the wild, and in the zoo they live up to 20-21 years.

Main threats

• the hunt for their luxurious fur;
• the shrinking of their habitat;
• poisoning because of polluted waterways;
• destruction of the rain forests;
• fishing;
• jaguars and anacondas.