Giant Otter
Sounds & Calls
Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis)
The Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) is a large species of otter found in the Amazon region of South America. It inhabits freshwater streams, rivers and marshes, preferering slow-moving water adjacent to areas of thick riparian vegetation and sloping banks where the otters can access cover, build dens and campsites. This species is also known as the Giant River Otter.
What does a Giant Otter sound like? Giant Otters are highly social animals and have a complex range of vocalizations including barks, hums, snorts and whistles. Gruff snorts are often given when the otters feel threatened or alarmed and this vocalization is frequently heard when the otters are being approached or viewed by humans. Barks are given when group members are interacting in the water or on land. Hum sounds and sharp whistles can serve as rallying calls to other group members, although all these sounds appear to serve various functions depending on context.
Listen to some examples of Giant Otter sounds below.
Listen to Giant Otter Sounds
The audio in the video below features a variety of sounds made by Giant Otters, including snorting alarm calls, humming and high-pitched whistles. Recorded in Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Ecuador.
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