OTTER
				Phylum: Class: Order: Family: Species: Chordata Mammalia Carnivora Mustelidae Lutra canadensis, Martes americana (North American River Otter) Enhydra lutris (sea otter)

There are approximately 20 different species of otter, found in nearly all parts of the world, with the exception of Australasia and Antarctica. They have long bodies, short legs, and a stout tail, which is thick at the base and tapering out toward the tip. Their heads are flat and broad, and their ears are small. The otter has sleek fur, waterproof underfur and an outer layer of stiff guard hairs. These guard hairs are gray at the base and dark brown at the tip. Their forefeet are small and the hind feet are large and webbed.

Otters sleep in burrows made in the banks of rivers and lakes, and are mainly active by night. They spend much of their time in the water and are expert swimmers. Their speed and maneuvering capabilities enable them to catch fish with ease. In addition to fish, their diet consists of crayfish, frogs, birds, and small mammals.

By nature, otters are solitary creatures, except during mating season. Always on the alert for danger, they are cautious. Mating takes place at any time of the year, with a peak in spring and early summer. The 2 or 3 cubs remain in the burrow for eight weeks, after which their mother coaxes them into the water for their first swim. They are naturally playful and love water games.

Species include the European otter, the Canadian otter, the American river otter, the sea otter, and the Brazilian giant otter. Unfortunately, the fur of the Brazilian giant otter is commercially valuable, and makes this species the most endangered of the Amazonian mammal.