Species of Otters

Classification of Otters

Otter classification is not straightforward. There have been various schemes used through the years, but the one I am going to use has the otters grouped according to the latest DNA research by Koepfli et al (2008).

Lutra-Type Otters

Lontra-type Otters

  • North American River Otter Lontra canadensis
  • Marine Otter or Sea Cat Lontra felina
  • Neotropical Otter Lontra longicaudis
  • Southern River Otter Lontra provocax

The Giant Otter