Smooth-coated Otter

Photo credit: Neo Shu Hui

The Smooth-coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) is usually spotted in pairs or in small families in our mangroves, mudflats, and other coastal areas. It is usually active during the day and night and feeds mainly on fish. Cute as it may be, the otter can smell quite pungent, particularly near where it leaves its spraints (otter defecation) to mark its territory. If you do spot otters, please do not touch, chase, or corner them, as this may frighten them. Instead, watch them from afar.