The European otter (Lutra lutra) is a semiaquatic mammal native to Europe and Asia. It is the largest species of otter in the world, with adults typically measuring 57–95 cm (22–37 in) in length and weighing 7–12 kg (15–26 lb). They have a long, slender body with a short tail and webbed feet. The fur is thick and waterproof, and is typically brown or gray in color.
European otters are found in a variety of habitats, including rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. They are most common in areas with plenty of food and water.
European otters are carnivores and their diet consists mainly of fish. They will also eat frogs, crayfish, and small mammals. European otters are excellent swimmers and they can dive to depths of up to 100 meters. They use their webbed feet to propel themselves through the water and their long tail helps them to steer.
European otters are social animals and they live in groups called holts. Holts can be made up of a single otter or a family group.
The breeding season for European otters is from January to March. Females give birth to a litter of 1-3 pups after a gestation period of about 63 days. Pups are born blind and helpless. They open their eyes after about 2 weeks and they are weaned after about 3 months.
European otters can live for up to 10 years in the wild. However, most otters do not live that long and are killed by predators or hunted by humans.
European otters are an important part of the ecosystem. They help to control populations of fish and other aquatic animals. European otters are also a popular game animal and they are hunted for their fur.
Here are some additional facts about European otters:
European otters are excellent swimmers and they can dive to depths of up to 100 meters.
European otters are social animals and they live in groups called holts.
European otters are an important part of the ecosystem. They help to control populations of fish and other aquatic animals.
European otters are a popular game animal and they are hunted for their fur.
