Asian dwarf goddess

The Asian dwarf otter is the smallest of all otter species and differs from other otters in that it has no webbed skin between its toes. The dwarf otter lives in wetlands such as rivers and mangrove swamps and feeds on shellfish and other small aquatic animals. However, it can also catch and eat snakes, rats and insects.

The dwarf dragon is equipped with a good set of teeth that work effectively to crush the hard shell of the shellfish. However, dwarf lizards have been observed in zoos using a clever tactic to avoid being 'nibbled' by the mussels; they place the closed (and still alive) mussel in the sun and wait for it to open itself!

Depending on the food supply, dwarf otters live in groups of up to 12 individuals, where group members communicate with each other using different sounds. Studies of the sounds between otters have identified at least 12 different calls, ranging from greetings to alarm calls. Individuals in captivity are often monogamous, meaning they mate for life.

The Asian pygmy goat is categorised as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Habitat loss, pollution and overfishing of food sources are the main threats to the species. The otter is also hunted in some areas for its beautiful and dense fur and for the illegal pet industry in Asia, where it is the most popular otter species.

Distribution: Wetlands in South and Southeast Asia
Population: The population is in decline and the species is declared vulnerable to extinction
Weight: 2.7 - 5 kg
Body length: 45-60 cm
Neck length: 25-35 cm
Sexually mature: Around 2-3 years of age.
Gestation: 60-86 days
Number of cubs: 2-7 cubs
Food: Mainly crabs, snails and fish, but also amphibians, insects and worms, among others. Food varies according to the season.
Life expectancy: Around 11 years in captivity

Latin name: Aonyx cinereus