Species · GBIF taxon 2433686
Smooth-coated Otter
Lutrogale perspicillataAlso known as Smooth Otter, Indian Smooth-coated Otter
Smooth-coated otters are highly social carnivores that live in large, cooperative family groups, unlike most other otter species. They hunt in coordinated packs, herding fish into shallow waters where they can be easily captured. Their exceptionally smooth, short, and velvety fur helps them glide effortlessly through the rivers, lakes, and mangrove swamps of South and Southeast Asia.
Semi-aquaticSocial
—observations
—countries
—peak records
VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Fish
- Crabs
- Frogs
Predators
- Saltwater Crocodile
- Reticulated Python
- Stray Dogs
ThreatsHabitat destruction, water pollution, dam construction, and poaching for the illegal fur trade
HabitatsFreshwater rivers, lakes, peat swamp forests, mangroves, and rice paddies
Life span10 to 15 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyMustelidae
- SpeciesLutrogale perspicillata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Can deliver a painful bite if cornered or defending pups; observe from a safe distance.
- Why it is dangerous
- Equipped with strong jaws and sharp teeth used for crushing fish bones, which can inflict severe wounds if they feel threatened.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a large otter with a flattened tail, smooth brown fur, and a pale throat.
- What to do
- Never approach, corner, or attempt to feed wild otters; back away slowly if they hiss or growl.
- What to notice
- Identified by their large size, exceptionally smooth coat, and highly social group behavior.
- Support conservation
- Report any illegal trapping or trade to local wildlife authorities and avoid disturbing nesting sites.
Responsible observation
- Keep Your Distance: Respect their space, especially when they are on land or traveling with pups.
- Listen for Vocals: Listen for their distinct chirps, whistles, and group choruses to locate them in dense reeds.
- Watch the Water: Look for V-shaped wakes or bubbles on the water surface to track their underwater movements.
Predator and Competitor (c) Bernard DUPONT, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Co-occurring Relative "Asian Small-Clawed Otter" by SidPix is licensed under CC BY 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/. · cc-by
Close Relative Bernard Landgraf / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative (c) IOSF1957, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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