Giant Otter Pteronura brasiliensis

The Giant Otter, also called the Giant River Otter, is the longest otter and longest mustelid, growing up to 1.7 metres long.

It lives around and in rivers, lakes and inland waterways of the northern half of South America. It is endangered, mainly through habitat loss and degradation (and, formerly, also trapping for fur).

The shape is aerodynamic with short ears low on the head. It has dense fur and webbed feet for swimming. The tail is used as a rudder and is splashed in the water to see off potential predators/aggressors.

In addition to fish (including catfish and piranha), Giant Otters will prey on turtles, snakes and even small caiman. They have also been known to see off jaguar.

They have a strong social structure and are very vocal (with several recognised vocal sounds).