disturbing facts about otters

Otters use their dungknown as spraintto communicate with other otters. Kerlin, Kat. According to the Smithsonian, these mammals are the world's newest carriers of H1N1, the flu strain that lead to a human pandemic back in 2009. In Bangladesh, otters help fisherman maximize their haul. Otters will hold hands while they sleep and drift so that they don't separate! Otters have big appetites to account for the great conditions they face. Dominant males often establish themselves as the head of a group, while subordinate males may attempt to challenge the leaders position. Otters can be discovered inhabiting almost every continent on Earth and these imply otter facts are applicable to all 13 species, many of which are sadly endangered because of overhunting,. The golden poison dart frog (Phyllobates . Otters - in particular, the sea variety - need to consume huge amounts of food to keep active. Otters (genus Lutra) hail from the subfamily of Lutrinae and are carnivorous mammals. Second, otters can give you H1N1, better known as "swine flu," as our friends at The Verge have reported. Today you will find out some history facts that you may not have heard of before, and they come with a twist, as Redditor Doyouareisstupid asked, "What is the weirdest/most disturbing fact about our world's history that you know?" It's a perfect read for the spooky season we are now in because people have knowledge about some . Source: 14 Fascinating, Super-Disturbing Facts About The Human Body. How do otters stay warm? They live in intricate social structures, with a distinct hierarchy that dictates their interactions. Source: 14 Fascinating, Super-Disturbing Facts About The Human Body. Sea otters cannot swim at all for their first month, despite being born in the open sea. When faced with a threat, they wont hesitate to use their powerful teeth and strong jaws to inflict serious injury. They were considered extinct until 1998 when a scientist in Thailand found small populations. A 2010 paper talked about 19 cases, including a particularly gruesome instance where a sea otter bit a pup's face, held it underwater, and copulated with it for over an hour until it died. When the female surfaced, the male stole her food (a clam), after which the female and pup quickly departed.The human equivalent of this is probably going to a grocery store parking lot, finding a woman coming out with a small child, and holding a gun to the kid's head until the mom gives you some of her food. ", 5. A new discovery raises a mystery. These furry creatures eat meat, such as fish, frogs, birds, and even mammals. Sea otters murder even when it doesn't provide them with food or offspring, like straight-up sociopathic spree killers. Don't flush hazardous chemicals or cat litter. U.S. Department of the Interior. Finally, the sea otter positioned itself dorsal to the pups smaller body while grasping it by the head and holding it underwater in a position typical of mating sea otters. Others, like the marine otters of South America, have had their numbers reduced because of poaching, as well as environmental concerns. People also call it North American river otter. This suggests that the otters must first satisfy their nutritional needs before engaging in playful behaviors. Additionally, education and awareness programs can play a role in preventing these conflicts. National Park Service, 2016. It was thought that otters helped keep water purified by. The Romans were notorious for gruesome execution methods. Otters prefer water bordered by woods and with wetlands, such as marshes, nearby. They are generally not aggressive towards humans, but they may attack if they feel threatened or cornered, particularly if they are protecting their young or territory. "Hairy Nosed Otter." A mother will often wrap the babies in kelp to keep them in one place while she hunts. Concealed beneath those button noses and fluffy fur lies a creature with some really frightening mating habits. Stephens, Tim. Otters survive by hunting, and as such they live in unpolluted waters. "Hairy-nosed Otter." The history of book bansand their changing targetsin the U.S. Find out if you are a sea otter specialist by checking your info against these fascinating sea otter facts. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. The sea otter is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List, pressured by pollution, pesticides, and conflicts with fishermen who kill them for eating their fish. With their furry faces and charming personalities, they have captured the hearts of many. To save chestnut trees, we may have to play God, Why you should add native plants to your garden, What you can do right now to advocate for the planet, Why poison ivy is an unlikely climate change winner. River otters are nocturnal hunters. 6. And I don't just mean in the way carnivorous species always are to their prey. The harbor seal moved toward the water with the sea otter following closely. So instead, they dropped the pup in with the female otter, and she immediately went into mom mode. Their construction activities can lead to the erosion of riverbanks, the destruction of vegetation, and the alteration of water flow in the surrounding area. Email: [emailprotected]. On average, river species can live up to 8-9 years in the wild, while sea species can live up to 10-15 years. Koalas don't drink water. There has been an incident where an otter had tried to mate with a dog and killed it in the process. But the last 40 years haven't consisted of unerring progress for the sea otter. Some tribes consider the otter to be a lucky animal and a symbol of "loyalty and honesty." Otters are adorable and cute creatures that love to play and swim together. They mark their territory with scent glands located near their tails, communicating ownership and boundaries to other otters. Groenendijk, J., et al. Researchers found that playful sliding on a riverbank was not just efficient locomotion, but play. Do not reproduce without permission. An Otter can remain under water for up to 4 minutes. They use their front paws with a dexterity that nearly rivals humans. If you thought that these are the worst disturbing facts about otters, youd be mistaken were just getting started with the absolute worst these animals do. At six months, the pups are released back into the wild with generally strong results. It's been reported in primates like orangutans and chimpanzees, bottlenose dolphins, and ducks, among many other species. A river otter has an average weight of 20 pounds and is 4 feet long, while a sea otter weighs 70-80 pounds and is 6 feet long. Forceful mating practices are a disturbing aspect of otter behavior that highlights the darker side of their seemingly innocent and playful appearance. All rights reserved. Scientists hypothesize that these seemingly counterproductive mating habits might be the result of a population imbalance. This means you cant distinguish between healthy and infected otters, making them even more dangerous. 5, 2020, p. 200141., doi:10.1098/rsos.200141. Oceana reports, "It is thought that oil spills pose the greatest threat due to the proximity of sea otters to major tanker routes and their susceptibility to hypothermia if their fur comes into contact with oil.". This law is enforced by the U.S. Otters have long been celebrated for their playful nature and captivating appearance, but as this article has revealed, they have a darker side that is often overlooked. Spraint scents can vary, but often are (relatively) pleasantone expert described them as not "dissimilar to jasmine tea." When a pup is small, the mother will hold it on her belly to keep it from floating away. During mating, male otters hold onto the female and bite her nose, sometimes even hard enough that blood starts gushing out and causes deep wounds. Male otters have also been known to violently copulate with other speciesmost notably, baby seals [PDF]. Such disputes can lead to significant injuries or even death for the individuals involved. What's weirder are a) otters's tendencies to menace baby seals, b) the fact that male otters kill an awful lot of the female otters with whom they copulate, and c) the necrophilia. Asian otter species also face threats from the illegal pet trade. "Sea Otter Society: The Single Moms' Club." The fight to make it harder for landlords to evict their tenants, On Succession, Sisyphus rolls the rock uphill, Ecuadors political instability, explained, In Sudan, the US government finally begins evacuating its citizens. This behavior can result in severe injuries to the female otter and can even lead to death in extreme cases. 28 . The playful North American river otter is equally at home in the water and on land. This combination allows them to have greater nimbleness when foraging. This impact on fisheries can be particularly significant in areas with already vulnerable fish populations, where otters predation can further destabilize the ecosystem. This high demand leaves otter mothers depleted, and many die from minor illnesses. As a result of their rapid decline, many countries have enacted laws and regulations to protect sea otters. Sea otters, unlike other marine mammals, do not have a . Sliding Behavior in Nearctic River Otters: Locomotion or Play? Swimming ability is further enhanced in most species by four webbed feet. Sometimes, they will also force the females head underwater. Additionally, some commercial fishing operations may see them as a direct threat to their livelihoods, leading to calls for population control or even eradication. As a result, conservation efforts have been put in place to help protect these animals. Their diets are primarily carnivorous, but at times can be omnivorous (1). IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: Hairy-nosed Otter, 2015, doi:10.2305/iucn.uk.2015-2.rlts.t12421a21936999.en. Some otters hold the female's heads underwater during intercourse to force submission. From blood-squirting lizards to deceivingly cute killer sea otters, there are plenty of creepy behaviours in the natural world, that far outdo the supernatural. Otters also have particularly stinky poop, which even has its own name: spraints. Despite their innocent appearance, these animals are known for doing pretty disturbing stuff. They communicate with each other using a variety of vocalizations, including whistles, growls, and chirps. In addition to re-introduction programs, other measures are also taken by conservationists such as habitat protection, awareness campaigns targeting local communities about how their activities target or affect the animals populations, monitoring and control over toxins released into water bodies with where otters live or breed and enforcement of laws against hunting or poaching. They eat up to 9 pounds of food in a day and their sharp teeth and powerful tail let them swim fast when they are hunting and can even confront caiman or other enormous Amazon creatures if the need arises. Otters have their cubs in underground dens called holts, which they dig themselves. This may not surprise those who know the animal well, but its important to note that otters are carnivores. The male forced the pup under water as if trying to drown it. River otters have many interesting qualities and adaptations that make them wonderful entertainment. Some even move in while beavers are still present. Therefore, sea otters are obsessive about keeping their fur clean, and groom themselves . Inside South Africas skeleton trade. Here are 13 strange and terrifying facts about animals that'll send a shiver down your spine. Are female otters the only species that males try to copulate with? River otters as a whole look quite similar to weasels. River otters perform "scat dances" by stomping their hind feet and lifting their tail. Otters have been known to guard and have sex with the bodies of their victims for up to seven days after they've died. They have webbed feet and the ability to close their nose and ears underwater.Twelve out of thirteen otter species are in decline. Facts about River Otters talk about an animal, which can be found on the coasts or waterways of North America. However, otters may take their diet a bit too far because. "The Drivers and Functions of Rock Juggling in Otters." But few species are violent in quite as disturbing a way as the otter. There they exchange information via chemical cues in feces. Furthermore, the potential for disease transmission among otters and other species can complicate conservation efforts. They love to chow down! Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic Society, Copyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. To prevent injuries caused by otters, it is important to avoid approaching them or their dens, particularly during breeding season when they may be more aggressive. The river otter is classified as a furbearer (WAC 232-12-007). Despite spending most of their time in the water, otters cant breathe underwater; as mammals, they need air. This rediscovery, after presumed extinction, makes them a Lazarus species. I just think otters are jerks. And, according to a study published in Emerging and . Here's just one: A weaned harbor seal pup was resting onshore when an untagged male sea otter approached it, grasped it with its teeth and forepaws, bit it on the nose, and flipped it over. More otters -> fewer sea urchins -> more kelp -> less global warming. Sea Otters Have the World's Thickest Fur, 20 Bizarre and Beautiful Starfish Species, 10 US Ecosystems Saved by Endangered Species, 12 Facts About Sea Otters for Sea Otter Awareness Week, How to Tell the Difference Between Sea Otters and River Otters, Whats Killing Sea Otters? Sea otters are also among the most ravenous animals. Can Frogs Feel Happy? Four different species of otter live in Central or South America, another three in South and Southeast Asia, two in sub-Saharan Africa, and one in Europe. Lutrinae contains seven genuses and 12 different species, spanning every continent save Australia and Antarctica; a 13th species, the Japanese river otter, was declared extinct in 2012, like many otter species before it. 2023 Minute Media - All Rights Reserved. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. As a result, if you ever find yourself in proximity to an otter (river or sea), back off. When he's not writing or reading, Aleksandar can be found exploring the great outdoors with his trusty dog as a companion. Among the endangered are the sea otters along the Californian to Alaskan coasts, which are threatened by "environmental pollutants and disease agents." Related Article:Giant Otters Used to Be Fearsome Hunters in Ancient China. Yeah, that's right. All otters have webbed feet to help propel them through the water, and most species . North American river otters, also called Canadian otters, have long, muscular, streamlined bodies with short legs and fully webbed feet bearing non-retractable claws. 1. Are Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney in love, or are they good actors? All otter species appear on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, and only one is listed as "least concern." Some otters even die after intercourse from trauma. In detail, the male otter will bite down the female otters nose as the ritual begins causing physical injuries. I've discovered it improves your ability to focus, it's more calming, you retain more information, and it gives you a more balanced and nuanced view of the world." #16. Oh, sure they do. In the absence of females of their own kind, then, they turned their typical sexual responses toward the seals. 12 Cool Animals That Crawl (Crawl Speed & Pictures), What Eats Leopards (Top 5 Leopard Predators), Are Lions Smart? The species' recovery has been considerably slower in California relative to other areas. Unfortunately, it gets worse. Fruit Fly Swarms Are Really Just Massive Orgies "Giant Otter." Google Pay. A cat parasite called toxoplasmosis also poses a threat to these creatures. Royal Society Open Science, vol. Legend has it they save human lives on occasion: But there comes a point at which rational people have to put adorable hijinks aside and recognize otters for what they are: disease-ridden, murderous, necrophilic aqua-weasels whose treachery knows few bounds. Support our mission and help keep Vox free for all by making a financial contribution to Vox today. It is known as the common otter or northern river otter. The latter is the most common term for a group of otters on land. You keep hoping that. Read our about page! These otters also have less webbing between their digits. They then leave droppings called spraints, which refer to a single bowel evacuation and that researchers describe as smelling like violets. Or, she might rely on human resources and otter ingenuity to find a makeshift "playpen" for her pup. It's not uncommon for female otters to die as a result of these aggressive encounters, either through drowning or from their wounds becoming infected. otters can infect humans with the H1N1 virus. Compared to river otters, sea otters have an average size of 39.6-49.3 in (100.5-125.2 cm), making both the animals similar in size. Otters are well suited to a life on the water as they have . 2. Otters love to eat shelled animals, like clams, but they aren't equipped with the strength to open their food without some help. 30 . Advertisement. They are the smallest marine mammals on earth, but they consume about a quarter of their own body mass daily and most of the energy is used just to keep their little otter bodies warm. Those efforts are admirable and valuable to the ecosystems of which otters are a part. Additionally, some fish species may prey on their younglings. Even if you find them otherwise adorable, otters' mating habits will no doubt make your stomach turn. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. This mating behavior is typically driven by the males desire to maximize his chances of passing on his genes to future generations. Instead, researchers learned, they are more likely to juggle rocks when hungry or bored. Komala - Generation VII. Here are 13 weird or interesting facts about koalas to make you love them even more. Their nostrils and ears close to keep water out, and waterproof fur keeps them warm. Furthermore, they are also threatened by poaching and overfishing. They also use body language and scent marking to communicate ownership and boundaries. Cassidy, Josh. Otters are part of the Mustelidae family, which is a family of carnivorous mammals that includes skunks, weasels, wolverines, and badgers. Educating the public about wildlife conservation and habitat protection is one of the most effective ways to promote conservation efforts. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. The World Conservation Union (IUCN) lists the Otariidae family as Near Threatened, indicating that their global population is declining steadily but action needs to be taken before this species becomes endangered. These usually show evidence of regular use in the form of tracks, smell, spraints (feces), and general wear-and-tear. Theories for what's behind the drop range widely, but the US Fish and Wildlife Survey's recovery plan for the species highlights predation, in particular from killer whales, as the most important factor behind the decline. Unlike other weasels, otters are semi-aquatic. In particular, it is well known that sea otters will, As a result, if you ever find yourself in proximity to an otter (river or sea), back off. Charismatic otters are the largest members of the weasel family. Male otters, known as dogs, have been observed biting the females nose during copulation to keep her in place. 1. No permit is necessary; however . It isnt surprising, given that they need to eat around 15% of their body weight daily to survive. In many places, it is illegal to keep them as pets due to their protected status and potential danger to humans. Do Otters Have Webbed Feet? There are 13 species in total, ranging from the small-clawed otter to the giant otter. Since 1875 a study discovered that there have been 39 cases of anecdote attacks on humans announced in newspapers, and four recorded in scientific. Additionally, providing a variety of educational materials such as brochures that link otters to topics like freshwater ecosystems or climate change can have a powerful impact on how people understand conservation issues. - Diving into the Science! First, male otters sometimes hold pups ransom to force their mothers to give up some of their food. The aquarium staff had previously tried raising pups themselves but found that hand-raised otters became too attached to humans to be released back into the wild. Among fluffy kittens and puppies with big eyes, one of Earth's most adorable animals is frequently said to be the cuddly small otter. International Otter Survival Fund. Most are small, with short ears and noses, elongated bodies, long tails, and soft, dense fur. For example, otters have been known to kill and eat kittens, and they have also been known to attack and kill humans. However, even within these communal groups, otters still exhibit territorial behavior and establish dominance hierarchies, highlighting the importance of resource control in their survival. However, there are three species of otter that have blunt claws or none at all. However, in rare cases, otter attacks can result in more severe injuries, particularly if the victim is a child or elderly person. , but one wrong move and you will be hurt. 6 Reasons Why Otters Are Evil #1 Otters are Voracious Carnivores This may not surprise those who know the animal well, but it's important to note that otters are carnivores. Furthermore, they have been observed engaging in territorial disputes over prime foraging spots, often resulting in violent confrontations. They can act as carriers of various parasites and pathogens, highlighting the potential risks associated with close interactions between humans and wildlife. Stevens, Sadie S., and Thomas L. Serfass. Male sea otters have been known to engage in sexual aggression toward baby seals, an act that can result in severe injuries and even the death of the seal. 2023 NatureWorldNews.com All rights reserved. These furry creatures eat meat, such as fish,frogs, birds, and even mammals. River otters live primarily in freshwater, though they do swim and hunt in seawater. Only the North American River Otter has been classified as having a stable population . But with their numbers hovering around just a few thousand, researchers have kept a close eye on the population and their studies have revealed an interesting social structure. Females maintain the den and give birth to an average of two to three pups every year. Some Hold Hands While Sleeping. There are two layers of furan undercoat and then longer hairs that we can see. "North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis): A Technical Conservation Assessment." These efforts include re-introduction programs aimed at bringing them back to their native habitats and increasing their numbers in the wild. Zoroastrians would also hold ceremonies for otters found dead in the wild. Otter families are usually limited to pups and their mothers, and these duos will spend most of their time either feeding or sleeping. It shouldnt be surprising to learn that otters will force themselves on other animals. 5. A group of otters is called a raft, according to the San Diego Zoo. When food is hard to obtain, sea otter mothers will abandon their young and leave them to starve to death. Support our mission and help keep Vox free for all by making a financial contribution to Vox today. They provide full-time care for their babies for six to eight months, until the babies can survive independently. Their sleek bodies range in size from 2 to 5.9 feet. It shouldnt be surprising to learn that otters will force themselves on other animals. Here's what you need to know about these terrible animals, and why you should fear and hate them. Volunteer as an otter spotter or water monitor. (Exploring the Intelligence of Lions), 11 Powerful Animals With No Natural Predators. Otters have many long, stiff sensitive hairs ('vibrassae') that frame the snout: these help the otter to locate prey.

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