This otter occurs from South Africa northwards to Ethiopia and Senegal, but is absent from the central rainforest areas. The Cape Clawless Otter is similar in appearance to the Asian  Short-Clawed  Otter (Aonyx cinerea) but is very much larger. Although it is born with tiny claws it loses these on all toes except the middle three on the hind feet. They have no webbing and can therefore use their fingers more freely than other species.  They capture most of their prey in their paws, hunting by sight and also using their long vibrissae (whiskers) which help when hunting in murky waters. 

They are active generally during the late afternoon and early evening, and like many otter species  have set sprainting points and grooming areas. These otters are usually seen alone or in pairs, but occasionally they can be seen in family groups of up to five animals. 

Young otters go through rituals of fighting and romping. They often pick up an object, juggle with it, throw it in the water and attempt to retrieve it before it falls to the bottom. These games probably help the youngsters to practice skills they will need to capture prey in later life. 

THE FACTS

Conservation Status:  Near Threatened 

Size: 1.1 – 1.6m

Weight: 12-16kg

Litter size: Up to 3, born in spring

Threats: Increasing human population, farming and overgrazing.  

Endangered status: Low risk 

Distribution of the Cape Clawless Otter (Aonyx capensis)

Data based on Otters and Action Plan for their conservation (IUCN 1990) and world otters (IOSF 2005)