Playful, curious and full of energy

Native to South and Southeast Asia, these small-clawed otters (Aonyx cinereus) are known for their dexterous front paws and short claws that don’t extend beyond their webbed toes — adaptations that make them particularly skilled at foraging. They’re social and vocal animals, observed to have at least 12 calls, and are often seen playing on mud banks and in the water.

Made to swim

These animals typically inhabit riverbanks, wetlands and mangrove swamps, feeding on a variety of mollusks, crabs and other small aquatic animals. They’re incredibly agile swimmers and can even close their small ears and nostrils while underwater.

Smallest otter species in the world

Asian small-clawed otters are the smallest otter species in the world. While they are often found in pairs, this species also lives in extended family groups of up to a dozen individuals in the wild.