Giant Otter

"While certainly large and unruly, the otters of Vorthal are also curious and playful. If not for the incessant barking, they may even be enjoyable."
-from My Days in the Jungle by Ferdinand Hertalson

The giant otter is a fresh water weasel native to the rivers of the Great Vorthali Forest. They are known for having incredibly loud "barks" and complex social groups.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The Vorthali species is the largest of otters, males growing up to ten feet long and 160 pounds and females just slightly smaller. They have shorter fur than other species, likely due to the reduced need to retain heat in the warmer waters of Vorthal, and are typically dark brown with reddish hue, appearing black when wet. They have short sloped snouts that give the head a round appearance. They have small round ears towards the back of their head and large sensitive whiskers.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Giant otter feed mostly on river fish, to include piranha, and can do so alone or as a group. Coordinated hunting is seen mostly when a prey cannot be taken on alone, such as juvenile black caiman or anaconda.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

The giant otters fur is highly sought after for its velvet feel and water resistance however due to their social nature, it has proven difficult to procure the fur without invoking aggression from many otters.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

The giant otters whiskers are believed to allow the feeling of slight changes in water pressure and current giving the otter increased tracking capability.

Social Structure

The giant otter is famous for having advanced social interactions, usually living in a small group numbering between six and eight. The groups are documented as using advanced thinking in tactics for hunting and even posting "guards" whose duty is to ensure the group is not ambushed by another group or any predator.

Vocalisations

Along with their complex social environment, the Vorthali otters appear to have a complex repertoire of barks that can indicate different intentions, including but not limited to: a quick bark may indicate interest or possible threat, low growls for aggressive intent or a whistle for non-hostile, or a hum for reassurance.

Origin/Ancestry

Vorthali

Lifespan

~12 years

Average Weight

~140 pounds

Average Length

~9 feet