Lontra longicaudis
The Neotropical River Otter is a bit of an unknown. It is classed as ‘Data Deficient’ in the IUCN redlist and Endangered in CITES Appendix 1 and these rare mammals are not often seen.
We have them at Reserva Don Luis even though we do not have a river running through our land. We do however have plenty of fish and molluscs in our ponds and lagunas so presumably this is suitable habitat for them.
Like all members of the family Mustelidae, it has a long body and short legs. The hind legs are in fact longer than the front ones to enable them to swim faster. They can weigh between 5-15 kg and have a length of appx. 90-120 cm, the male being larger and heavier.
They live on fish and mulluscs but are also opportunist hunters and will eat small mammals and birds if they are able.
The photograph is of a juvenile and was taken at El Puma Wildlife Refuge Centre in Posadas.
We are fortunate to have these wonderful mammals at the reserve although they are very difficult to see. I saw one in July 2011, and more recently a family of three in June 2014 We also now have many images from our camera traps, which though not very clear, are now at least giving us more information about this secretive species.
This otter looks much like other otters of the world and has a long body, short legs, a long tail and webbed feet to enable it to swim efficiently.
The River Otter consumes fish, reptiles and amphibians and will even take small mammals and birds given the opportunity.
It is classed as data deficient in the IUCN redlist but as endangered in CITES Appendix 1.
