Asian Small-Clawed Otter Husbandry Manual (1998)

unless this is proven to present some kind of problem. Some females became agitated by the presence ofalternate nest boxes and carried the pups back and forth excessively. In cases like, this alternate boxesshould be removed. Signs of imminent parturition include some weight gain, and more time spent in the nestbox.Pup DevelopmentEyes open (start to finish)Crawling to walkingMoving on their ownTeeth coming inSwimming lessons startPlaying togetherFollow parents to latrineFirst solidsPlaying in the waterEating adult dietWeaned28 - 47 days15 - 43 days39 - 50 days27 days (lower canines)39 days (molars)52 - 56 days49 - 53 days55 days49 - 58 days61 days60 days82 - 120 days (210 days reported by one facility)Behavior of group members towards pups: In general the other group members are not aggressivetowards the pups. Problems with the cannibalization of the second litter by the dam when the pups weretwo days old have been reported. Whether or not this was due to the presence of the previous litter’soffspring is not possible to determine. All facilities should monitor the situation and remove animals thatshow a tendency towards aggression.Age pups separated: The age at which pups are separated from the natal group varies greatly and to alarge extent is a management decision. The 1997/98 SSP survey showed pups were separated as young asfive months to as old as six years.Pup diet: As would be expected, pups’ diets should be increased as they mature (see Chapter 1, Nutritionand Diet).Asian Small Clawed Otter Husbandry Manual/Reproduction51