Spot-necked otter
Hydrictis maculicollis
The spot-necked otter can easily be distinguished from other species of African otter by their characteristic white markings and spots on their chin and neck. They are generally solitary in nature but in certain conditions have been known to exist in small family groups. Its body length ranges from 85 to 105 centimetres and weight ranges between four and six and a half kilograms.
Like all otters, the spot-necked otter is brilliantly adapted for catching fish. It has a long streamlined body to help it swim fast. Its body is covered in a dense water-repellent fur. It has fully webbed paws, long claws and small teeth to help it catch its prey. The spot-necked otter is fairly clumsy on land and is more aquatic than many other otter species.
Belfast Zoo is currently one of only two zoos in Europe to keep this beautiful species of otter.
IUCN red list status
The IUCN status of the spot-necked otter is near threatened.
For more information on classifications visit www.iucnredlist.org (link opens in new window).
Animal class
Mammal
Conservation status
The IUCN considers that the spot-necked otter is not yet threatened with extinction in the wild.
Habitat
Wetlands and marsh
Population
Despite current concerns, the spot-necked otter still has a colossal range and the rate of population decline is not considered to be too severe.
Diet
Piscivore/carnivore. Spot-necked otters eat fish but will also eat crabs, molluscs, aquatic insects, small birds and small mammals.