Main Characteristics

African Clawless Otters have a body length between 73 and 95 cms (29 - 37 inches), a tail length between 41 and 67 cms (16 - 26 inches) and they weigh between 10 and 16 kgs (22 - 35 lbs). They are brown in colour with thick, smooth fur.

Habitat

African Clawless Otters live in a variety of habitats in Africa.

Diet

African Clawless Otters mainly feed on fish, frogs, crabs and worms.

Breeding

After a gestation period of approximately 63 days, African Clawless Otters give birth to a litter of 2 - 3 young. They are weaned at 45 - 60 days and are fully mature at a year old.

Predators

Predators of the African Clawless Otter include pythons, crocodiles and fish eagles.

Subspecies

Subspecies of the African Clawless Otter include:

Aonyx capensis capensis
Aonyx capensis hindei
Aonyx capensis meneleki

Interesting Facts

The African Clawless Otter is also known as:
Cape Clawless Otter
Groot Otter

African Clawless Otters are the second largest species of freshwater otter.

Similar Animals

Congo Clawless Otter
Smooth-Coated Otter
Spotted-Necked Otter
Oriental Small-Clawed Otter
European Otter
Hairy-Nosed Otter
Giant Otter
Sea Otter