The Southeast Asian small-clawed otter is the smallest otter species in the world—and one of the most social. These tiny, agile mammals are known for their strong family bonds and lively behavior. But despite their adaptability and charm, small-clawed otters are facing serious threats to their survival due to deforestation, habitat depletion, and dwindling food. As a result, the species has been added to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Vulnerable Species.
Greater Good Charities is working with Wildlife At Risk to document and safeguard the small-clawed otter population. Global Discovery Expeditions will also be on the ground March 14-24, 2024, to further document Vietnam's extraordinary biodiversity.
But first, let's get to know the species we're working to protect.
1: Highly Social Creatures
Small-clawed otters are the most social otter species, living in extended family groups of up to 15. These groups work together to hunt, groom, and raise their young.
2: Small but Mighty
Small-clawed otters weigh only 4.4-11 lbs. and measure around 26-28 inches in length, including their tail. Despite their small size, small-clawed otters are incredibly agile swimmers and skilled hunters.
3: Specialized Paws
Unlike other otter species, small-clawed otters have webbed feet and tiny, nimble claws. Plus, small-clawed otters have opposable thumbs. These adaptations make them excellent foragers.
4: Talkative by Nature
Small-clawed otters are very vocal, using a variety of vocalizations to communicate with each other. They produce chirps, whistles, and squeaks, which help them coordinate group activities, express emotions, and maintain social bonds within their family unit.
5: Play Serves a Purpose
They love sliding down muddy banks, chasing each other, and wrestling. This playtime helps them develop essential skills for hunting and socializing.
6: An Eclectic Diet
Small-clawed otters have diverse tastes, feeding on fish, crustaceans, mollusks, insects, and small amphibians. Their paws are adept at detecting and capturing prey, making them skilled hunters.
7: Lifelong Mates
They form monogamous bonds and mate for life. They work together to raise their offspring, sharing responsibilities, including building dens, hunting for food, and caring for their pups.
8: Ecosystem Allies
Small-clawed otters inhabit Southeast Asia's freshwater wetlands, rivers, streams, and mangrove swamps, where they play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the ecosystems.
9: Many Names
Apart from "small-clawed otter" and "Asian small-clawed otter," these otters are also referred to as "Aonyx cinereus" in scientific circles.
Southeast Asia's small-clawed otters face threats to their survival, including habitat loss, pollution, poaching, and the exotic pet trade. Conservation efforts focused on habitat protection, anti-poaching, and public awareness are essential for ensuring their survival.
At Greater Good Charities, we take an integrated approach to protecting endangered species. By supporting on-the-ground research, community collaboration, and long-term solutions, we help protect ecosystems and the species that depend on them.
Want to help a Southeast Asian small-clawed otter? By donating to Greater Good Charities, you can feed them and support our initiatives.