Eurasian otter

Scientific name: Lutra lutra

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

Dense, waterproof brown fur with a lighter underside and distinctive white or cream chin and throat patch. Streamlined body with short legs, webbed feet, and a long muscular tail; males noticeably larger than females.

Size and weight

Males 7–12 kg, females 6–9 kg; body length 57–95 cm excluding tail; tail adds 35–45 cm.

Habitat

Eurasian otters inhabit freshwater rivers, streams, lakes, and coastal areas with clear water and good fish populations. They require riparian vegetation, rocky outcrops, or reed beds for cover and den sites, typically at low to moderate elevations.

Distribution

Found across Europe from Iberian Peninsula to Russia and from Scandinavia to North Africa; absent from Ireland and Mediterranean regions; restricted to unpolluted waterways with adequate fish stocks.

Diet

Primarily fish (trout, carp, pike) supplemented by crustaceans, amphibians, and small mammals; diet varies seasonally with local prey availability.

Behaviour

Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, solitary or in loose family groups; highly active swimmers covering 20+ km nightly along waterways; establish territory with scent-marking at regular sites.

Hunting tips

Look for five-toed tracks in soft substrate, spraints (droppings) at territorial markers, and slides on muddy banks. Approach quietly along riverbanks during low-light hours, staying downwind; glass water edges and den entrances. Move slowly and watch for ripples and diving disturbances indicating feeding activity.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 2 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.