OTTERS!

Spot-Necked Otter
Hydrictis maculicollis
IUCN status: Near Threatened
alias: speckle-throated otter
predators: crocodiles, leopards and other
large carnivores
threats: habitat loss, fishing conflicts, fish nets,
invasive fish species
size: 95-115 cm
(body 57-69 cm tail 33-44 cm)
weight: 13-18 kg
The spot-necked otter is easily recognised thanks to the distinctive white
patches on its neck. Unlike the two other sympatric African species, the
spot-necked otter has webbed paws, reduced whiskers and is diurnal,
specialised in hunting fish by sight in deep, flowing waters. It will also prey
on frogs, crabs and small water birds and is more aquatic than the other
African species. If there is enough prey, it will form large, social, groups. It is
famous for its strong inclination to play and has been seen playing with
other otters and alone; the cubs are very dependant and stay with the
mother for about two years. Introduced fish species, such as the Nile perch,
are a threat to the spot-necked otter because they tend to be too large
and fast for the otter to catch and, being more aggressive, are pushing the
smaller, local species to the brink of extinction, leading to a decrease in the
otters’ preferred food supply.
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