South America in The Amazon and Orinoco River Systems and the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland.About me
They call us the “giant river otter” because we’re some of the biggest mustelids: you know, like weasels, otters, and even wolverines. Measured from tail to snout, we could get up to human height! We’re also some of the chattiest members of our family — we growl, scream, bark, whistle, squeak, and sing, depending on the situation.
Unfortunately, our friendliness and ability to approach humans without fear has made us even more vulnerable to poaching, hunting, and conflict with fishermen — who think we’re annoying because we like the same fish…
Fast Facts: Did you know?
In Brazil, we’re known as ariranha, meaning “water jaguar” in the indigenous Tupi language. Our Portuguese name carries the same meaning! Onça-d'água means “jaguar of the water.” Pretty cool, huh?
We’re very family oriented, living in tight groups and helping build dens where mothers give birth. When they do, we all help out in raising the pups: moms, dads, and siblings alike. We protect them, feed them, and teach them how to fish.