5 Fun Facts About Otter

Otters belong to which animal family, also known for weasels and badgers?

Otters are carnivorous mammals classified under the subfamily Lutrinae, which is part of the Mustelidae family, a group that also includes weasels, badgers, mink, and wolverines.

Approximately how many extant species of otter are recognized worldwide?

There are 14 known extant species of otters, all of which are semiaquatic or marine, inhabiting diverse environments globally.

On which two continents are otters NOT naturally found?

Otters are highly adaptable mammals found on every continent except Australia and Antarctica.

What is the primary component of most otter species' diets?

While otters are opportunistic carnivores and eat a variety of prey, fish is the staple of their diet for most species.

What is a common term for an otter's den or burrow?

Otters are known to live in dens called 'holts,' which are typically found near water sources and can be natural burrows or dug into riverbanks.