One of Africa’s most charming and lively aquatic mammals, instantly recognizable for the distinctive white spots and blotches on its throat and chest. This otter is a highly skilled swimmer and an important predator in freshwater ecosystems, found across much of sub-Saharan Africa, especially in lakes, rivers, and wetlands. Unlike its larger cousin, the African clawless otter, the spotted-necked otter is smaller, sleeker, and more specialized for life in open water.
Its body is streamlined, covered with dense, chocolate-brown fur that looks almost glossy when wet. The most striking feature, of course, is its throat markings, which vary among individuals—some have speckles, others large blotches, making each otter unique. Its tail is long and muscular, tapering like a rudder, and its webbed feet make it a powerful swimmer capable of chasing fish with dazzling agility.
This otter is a fish specialist, hunting mainly by sight in clear freshwater bodies. It prefers clean rivers and lakes where it can use its excellent underwater vision to spot prey. Unlike some other otters that use tactile whiskers or claws, the spotted-necked otter relies on speed, maneuverability, and sharp teeth to snatch fish, although it will also eat frogs, crabs, and other aquatic animals when available. Its dependence on clear water means it is particularly sensitive to pollution and habitat disturbance.
Socially, spotted-necked otters are more gregarious than many of their relatives. They are often seen in small family groups or loose associations, playing, grooming, and swimming together. Play behavior is common—they chase each other, tumble in the water, and slide down muddy banks, which strengthens bonds and helps young otters develop hunting skills. They are also very vocal, producing a range of whistles, chirps, and barks to communicate with one another.
Distribution
Angola
Benin
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Central Af. Rep.
Chad
Congo-Brazzaville
Côte D’ivoire
DR Congo (Kinshasa)
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Ethiopia
Gabon
Ghana
Guinea-Bissau
Guinea
Kenya
Lesotho
Liberia
Malawi
Mali
Mozambique
Namibia
Niger
Nigeria
Rwanda
Sierra Leone
South Africa
Sudan
Tanzania
Togo
Uganda
Zambia
ZimbabweAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
