Otters - Giant Otter

The giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) of Brazil is the largest otter species. It measures up to 7 ft (2.1 m) long, including its tail, and can weigh more than 50 lb (23 kg). Like other otters, it has webbed hind feet and a large flat tail suited for swimming. Giant otters hunt in groups of 20 or more during the morning and at twilight. Having a diet similar to the river otter, giant otters consume their prey by holding it in their forepaws and consuming it head first. These otters live in dens dug in riverbanks, and have one or two offspring each year.