The European otter

Lutra lutra

The European otter, Lutra lutra, is a carnivorous mammal from the Mustelidae family which can weigh up to 11 kg. It lives in ponds, lakes and rivers and mainly feeds on fish and amphibians.

Distinctives features

With its webbed feet and particularly dense, thick fur, the otter is well adapted to the aquatic environment. Grooming its fur is of vital importance, as this natural layer of hair limits heat loss while waterproofing its epidermis.

Anecdote

Otters are capable of ingesting up to 1 kg of food a day, although their maximum weight rarely exceeds 11 kg!

Loutre d'Europe qui nage dans l'eau. — Loutre d'Europe
© MNHN - F.-G. Grandin

Loutre d'Europe sous une branche. — Loutre d'Europe
© MNHN - F.-G. Grandin

Loutre d'Europe debout. — Loutre d'Europe
© MNHN - F.-G. Grandin

Sponsor a species

By sponsoring a species from the Parc zoologique de Paris, you will support major conservation projects. Thanks to your donation, we will be able to improve the welfare of the animals, learn more about threatened species, and set up conservation initiatives in their natural environment. You will also have access to exclusive rewards!

I want to sponsor a species from the Parc zoologique de Paris