| The Giant otter is one of the largest carnivores of South America, and is well-adapted to an aquatic environment. This is a river otter. Adult males measure up to 1.8 meters and weigh 26-32 kg; females measure up to 1.7 meters and weigh 22-26kg. The Giant otter lives in large, noisy family groups. But such a large, diurnal and gregarious animal makes an easy target. Today, the combined effects of habitat loss and the drastic population reduction in the 1960's by pelt hunters are responsible for Pteronura's endangered status over much of its range. In Suriname the Giant otter has never been hunted and so enjoys relative security, particularly in the more remote areas. Dr. Nicole Duplaix did the first detailed study of Pteronura in Suriname in 1976-78, much of it in Kaburi Creek, and that work continues today. Other field biologists are now studying it in Peru, Guyana and French Guiana. |
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