Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis)

The giant otter, known locally as the 'river wolf', is one of South America's top predators and is the largest of the otter species in terms of length (4). The long, sinuous body is covered with velvety, reddish-brown fur, which is thick and water-repellent. A patch of cream colouring is present on the throat and chin, the pattern of which is unique to each individual. The short legs end in large webbed-feet and these, along with the rudder-like tail, allow the otter to move quickly through the water. The movement of prey is detected by the large eyes and sensitive whiskers (2) (5).

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