Extremely hydrodynamic body, with dense waterproof fur, short legs with webbed toes and a robust tail used as a rudder. It should not be confused with the coypu (a herbivorous rodent) or the giant otter. Near Threatened at the national level (SAREM) due to historical hunting and the degradation of watercourses. It is a Natural Monument in Corrientes. Total length: 90 to 130 cm. Weight: 5 to 12 kg.
Behaviour
Solitary or in small family groups. A strict and relentless carnivore: fish, crustaceans (crayfish), frogs and molluscs. Mostly diurnal and crepuscular in habit. It builds burrows in the edges of levees or in cavities among the roots of riverside trees.
How and when to see it
Year-round, swimming in a zigzagging fashion in clear channels and open lagoons. Best in the early morning, when they are seen fishing or basking on floating logs.
Where to see it in the Iberá
The gateways of the Great Iberá Park where neotropical otter has confirmed presence:
Tours to see it
Verified providers operating at the gateways where neotropical otter lives. You contact them directly on WhatsApp from the app.
- Esteros Ñe’é
Experiencias con relato local y mirada cultural sobre los esteros.★ 5 - Salvaje Iberá
Senderismo, cicloturismo, safari fotográfico, avistaje de fauna, paseos largos en el día…★ 5 - Gaucho Argentino
Travesías a caballo por una red de refugios en el Iberá. Cabalgatas de varios días con…★ 5 - Iberá Spirit
Agencia de turismo especializada en los Esteros del Iberá desde hace 10 años. Paquetes…★ 5
Species profile
- Common nameNeotropical Otter
- Scientific nameLontra longicaudis
- GroupMammal
- StatusNative
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