Animal
Eurasian otter
A streamlined body and sensitive whiskers help this predator hunt underwater.
Idioma del contenido
An elongated body, short legs and a tapering tail give the Eurasian otter a streamlined shape. The tail helps steer and propel it, while webbing joins the toes. Its ears and nostrils close during a dive. Whiskers, or vibrissae, detect vibrations in the water and help locate prey when sight alone is not enough.
The otter belongs to the weasel family. It hunts in water, taking fish among other prey, but rests and raises its young on land. It uses sheltered places in banks, under roots or among rocks. Its world includes rivers, streams and lakes, as well as some marine coastlines. Water and safe hiding places on shore are therefore equally important.
It usually lives alone, although a female stays with her young. Otters mark their territory with scent and use established places to enter the water. They are often active at night, dusk and dawn. The eyes, ears and nostrils sit high on the head, making it easier to watch the surroundings while swimming near the surface. Only a small part of the animal needs to remain above water.
Para niños
An otter looks built for swimming: it has a long body, short legs and a strong tail. Webbing joins its toes. Underwater, it closes its ears and nostrils to keep water out.
Its sensitive whiskers detect vibrations and help it find prey in the water. An otter hunts fish and other animals but rests on land. It looks for safe shelters along banks, under roots and among rocks.
It usually lives alone, though a mother stays with her young for a time. It often hunts in the evening, at night or at dawn. Eyes, ears and nose are high on its head. When swimming near the surface, it can breathe and watch its surroundings at the same time. The tail helps it turn and move through the water.
Pregunta 1 de 2
What do an otter’s whiskers detect when it hunts?
- Ubicación
- Eurasian otter enclosure