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Smallest otter in the world
"The Asian small-clawed otter is the smallest species of otter in the world. They grow only 85 centimeters long, including tail."
Discover in real lifeFood:
fish, crustaceans, small mammals and small birds
Lifespan:
12 years on average
Weight:
1 to 5 kilograms
Number of youngsters:
1 to 6 young
Carrying time:
about 2 months
IUCN status:
vulnerable
EEP:
no
About the Asian small-clawed otter
Asian small-clawed otters use their legs more than other otter species. To grasp things properly, they have only partial flippers between their fingers and toes and their nails are shorter than in other otters. Smallmouth otters are social and playful animals. A male and female stay together as a pair throughout their lives.
Habitat and threats
Asian small-clawed otters live in Southeast Asia, near shallow water. They live near both salt and fresh water. There is usually dense vegetation nearby. They use this to hide in case of danger. Asian small-clawed otters dig burrows in the banks to sleep in.
Over the last 60 years, the range of the Asian small-clawed otter has been shrinking. This is mainly due to land use by humans. Coffee and tea plantations are being established and cities and villages are being built. In addition, Asian small-clawed otters suffer from overfishing and pollution. As a result, there is less and less food for the otters. Finally, there is also much hunting of Asian small-clawed otters, both for their fur and for the illegal pet trade.
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Species conservation in Eindhoven Zoo
The status of the Asian small-clawed otter is vulnerable. Unfortunately, many of the animal species you see at the parc are under threat and struggling in their natural habitats. Did you know that over 10,000 animal species worldwide are at risk of extinction? Together, we can help them—through big or small steps. Want to know how?