
Giant otter
Status
Endangered
Classification
Mammal
Exhibit
Water is Life
They Have a Whole Lot to Say
You'll often hear the giant river otters before you see them. This species can actually make 22 different vocalizations. These can be grumbles, squeaks, barks, snorts or even screams!

Also known as "River Wolves"
Giant river otters spend their days hunting for fish in the rivers of the tropical rainforests of South America. They have a blunt, sloping muzzle with long whiskers along with a flattened tail. Their tail enables them to swim quickly (they can swim 330 feet in under 30 seconds!) and maneuver easily underwater.
Philadelphia Zoo is the first zoo in North America to have a successful birth of this species in March of 2004.

Adopt a Giant Otter
By adopting a Philadelphia Zoo animal, you share your love for animals by helping ours receive the best possible care.
Adopt a Giant Otter