Smooth-coated Otter

The smooth-coated otter is the largest otter in Southeast Asia. Its short, tightly packed underfur and sleek guard hairs give the coat a smooth, glossy appearance. Other distinguishing features include a rounded head, prominent diamond-shaped naked nose, fully webbed feet and a flattened tail. Adults weigh 7–11kg and reach 1–1.3m in total length, with males generally larger than females. (Animal Diversity Web; NParks Singapore)

This social otter inhabits large rivers, lakes, freshwater wetlands, mangroves, peat swamps and rice paddies across southern and Southeast Asia. It is agile both in water and on land and may travel considerable distances between wetlands. Groups cooperate in vigilance and sometimes hunt fish together. Fish dominate the diet, supplemented by crustaceans, frogs, insects, birds and other small vertebrates. Rest sites include rock piles, driftwood and burrows beside water. (Animal Diversity Web)