Size, Weight & Lifespan
Though tiny, these otters pack a lot of personality! Here's a closer look at their size, weight and lifespan:
Height: 18–24 inches
Length: 16–24 inches from head to tail
Weight: 6.6–11 pounds (average around 8 pounds)
Lifespan: 8–10 years in the wild, up to 20 years in human care
In the wild, their shorter lifespan is due to natural predators and environmental threats. In professional wildlife facilities, consistent nutrition, veterinary care and a safe habitat can double their years!
Behaviors & Predators
Asian small-clawed otters are highly social, often living in close-knit family groups of up to 12 members. They “chat” constantly through squeaks, whistles, chirps, and scent markings. These signals help them coordinate hunting, play, and defend their territory.
While it may look like they are just having fun, much of their play is actually practice for hunting skills and building social bonds. Despite their playful personalities, they face threats in the wild from both predators and people. Natural predators include:
- Large birds of prey
- Crocodiles
- Large snakes
- Monitor lizards
Human-related dangers such as habitat destruction, water pollution and illegal hunting also put their survival at risk. To stay safe, they rely on teamwork, with family members taking turns keeping watch and sounding alarms when danger approaches. When needed, they can vanish in seconds by diving into the water or slipping into dense vegetation.
