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oriental small-clawed otter

Aonyx cinerea

The oriental small-clawed otter is a playful and curious animal that loves to swim and play in the water. They have small claws that help them catch fish and crabs, making them great hunters in their watery homes.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The oriental small-clawed otter is the world's smallest otter, featuring sleek dark brown to grey fur and a lighter, creamy throat and chest. It has a rounded head and distinctive, barely visible claws on its partially webbed paws, making its 'fingers' highly dexterous.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderCarnivoraFamilyMustelidaeGenusAmblonyx
oriental small-clawed otter
furry trait badgewebbed_feet trait badgesocial trait badgepiscivorous trait badge
oriental small-clawed otter

Category

Mammals

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Families work together to build dens in riverbanks.

Their thick fur keeps them warm and dry in cold water.

These otters often 'juggle' pebbles, a playful behavior!

They communicate using at least 12 different calls!

Special abilities

Ability

Tactile Paws

Oriental small-clawed otters can 'feel' for food with their highly sensitive, nimble front paws, which helps them find hidden prey in murky water or mud.

Ability

Underwater Navigator

Oriental small-clawed otters can close their nostrils and ears underwater, which helps them stay submerged and hunt efficiently without getting water inside.

Ability

Super Whiskers

Oriental small-clawed otters have long, sensitive whiskers that help them detect vibrations and movement of prey even in dark or muddy waters.

Measurements & details

Length
70-96 cm
Weight
2.7-5.4 kg
Lifespan
10-16 years
Top Speed
15 km/h
Litter Size
1-7
Gestation
60-70 days

Diet & Feeding

They are expert hunters, mainly eating crabs, snails, and small fish found in shallow waters.

Primary Foods

  • crabs
  • snails
  • clams
  • small fish
  • frogs
  • insects

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Saltwater crocodile

Crocodylus porosus

Large predators can hunt young or vulnerable otters.

eats

Mud crab

Scylla serrata

Crabs are a favorite and common food source for otters.

eats

Striped snakehead

Channa striata

Small fish are a part of their opportunistic diet.

Traits

Also known as

Asian Small-Clawed OtterSmall-Clawed Otter

Collections

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Always watch from a distance and never try to touch wild animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is oriental small-clawed otter?

70-96 cm

How much does oriental small-clawed otter weigh?

2.7-5.4 kg

How long does oriental small-clawed otter live?

10-16 years

How fast can oriental small-clawed otter move?

15 km/h

What does oriental small-clawed otter eat?

They are expert hunters, mainly eating crabs, snails, and small fish found in shallow waters.

Where is oriental small-clawed otter usually found?

Wetlands

How does oriental small-clawed otter hunt?

Foraging

How many babies does oriental small-clawed otter usually have?

1-7

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