You have probably seen videos of Lola, the Asian small-clawed otter, or watched these playful creatures sliding through rivers and holding hands in the ocean. Otters are undeniably adorable, but there is much more to them than their charming public image. Here are seven interesting facts about otters that will surprise you.
1. They Are Related to Weasels and Wolverines
Otters belong to the taxonomic family Mustelidae, which also includes wolverines, badgers, and weasels. Despite their cute appearance, otters are closer relatives of the grizzly-tempered wolverine than of seals or dolphins. They share a muscular build, sharp claws, and keen intelligence with their mustelid cousins.
2. They Are Carnivorous Hunters
Otters have a varied diet depending on their species and habitat. Sea otters eat fish, urchins, clams, mussels, crabs, and snails, sometimes using rocks as tools to crack open hard shells. River otters hunt fish such as trout, catfish, and bass. With a high metabolism, they consume up to 25% of their body weight daily.
3. They Hold Hands While Sleeping
Sea otters often hold hands while resting in water to avoid drifting apart. This behavior, called rafting, helps them stay together. Mothers keep their young on their chests and use floating kelp as a natural anchor. It is a survival strategy, not a romantic gesture.
4. They Have the Densest Fur of Any Mammal
Otters possess about 150,000 hairs per square inch, compared to just 100 hairs per square inch on human heads. This dense fur provides superior insulation, allowing them to maintain body temperature in cold waters without the blubber layer that seals rely on.
5. Some Otters Use Tools to Hunt
Otters are exceptionally intelligent animals with remarkable problem-solving skills. Some species use rocks and other objects as tools to crack open shellfish. They demonstrate impressive precision in using these tools to obtain food.
6. Not All Otters Love to Swim
While sea otters and river otters are excellent swimmers, some species, such as the Congo clawless otter, prefer to spend more time on land. Their affinity for water varies across species.
7. Their Communication Is Unique
Otters communicate using whistles, twittering, and spitting sounds. They also rely on scent, vocalizations, and body language to convey information about food, territory, or danger. If you hear an otter whistle, it might be having a conversation with a companion.
