Cape clawless otters are not animals we see often at Londolozi. In fact, for many rangers and trackers, a good sighting of one is a once-in-a-blue-moon event. They are secretive by nature, spend much of their time in thick riverine vegetation, and are usually active when light levels are low. Because of this, we know relatively little about how they go about their day-to-day lives in our waterways.
That has shifted slightly in recent weeks.
Over a two-week period, Londolozi received more than 80% of its average annual rainfall. The effect on the landscape was immediate. Small drainage lines have now become little flowing streams, riverbeds like the Maxabene and Tugwaan that had been silent for months have filled with water, and the Sand River became a constant presence that could be heard throughout the night from our Londolozi village.
As the waters expanded across the reserve, so did animal movement. Catfish and terrapins began pushing upstream, freshwater crabs appeared, frogs and toads started calling from newly formed pools, and aquatic insects emerged in abundance. And with them came species that rely heavily on the life these waterways provide, including Cape clawless otters.
We have since been treated to several unexpected sightings. Rangers, trackers, and guests have seen otters around the causeway and, on a few occasions, from the main decks of the camps. It has been a reminder of how quickly animals respond when conditions allow.
Cape clawless otters (Aonyx capensis) are the largest otter species found in Africa. They are strongly built animals with dense, waterproof fur and long, sensitive whiskers that help them locate prey in murky water. Unlike other otters, they lack prominent claws and instead use their front paws to feel beneath rocks and sift through soft mud. They have very robust teeth designed for crushing, and jaws that are proportionally stronger than both lions and hyenas.
Their diet consists mainly of freshwater crabs in the Sand River, although fish, frogs, and other aquatic animals are also taken. They are generally cautious animals and are most active in the early morning, late afternoon, and at night, which helps explain why they are so rarely seen.
One morning, while returning to camp, we crossed the Maxabene riverbed and noticed a splash just upstream from our vehicle. Tracker Terrence spotted something scuttling off into the grass and said “Wait bhuti, let’s take a good look.”, so we stopped to wait it out. After a few minutes, we saw movement in the long grass on the bank and initially thought it might be a honey badger.
Moments later, to our amazement, two Cape clawless otters emerged, each carrying a freshly caught catfish. What an incredible sight this was for us to see them in the Maxabene! They had clearly heard us approaching and had moved into the cover of the long grass with their food. We remained still, and after some time, they relaxed, returning to the water’s edge where they felt more comfortable feeding. We were able to spend a good 15 minutes or so with them before they finished up their meals and then wandered off.
Encounters like this are a good reminder that you never quite know what you’ll find out there. With the right conditions, even the most elusive animals can suddenly appear.
Oh what a dream to see. Any mustelids are difficult to study because of the crepuscular natures. How exciting to have spent 15 minutes with these elusive beauties.
Thanks for that update. Great to see how nature adapts
Thanks for this great article on otters. I do hope that they will still be around a bit in April because I would like to see one or the other of them so much. Fantastic, how the animals appear as soon as the conditions are right for them.
Great Photos!
A once in a lifetime sighting , on a parr with mating caracals …
If only …
What a treat to see more of them lately. I’m sure they’re enjoying the abundant waters.
How wonderful, Matt – what a fantastic sighting. Great spot Terrence!
Hi Matt, this is a magnificent surprise to see the otters out and about. They do good work as well under the water. You never know what you are going to see in the bush, which is quite exciting. Beautiful images of them thank you.
Hi Matt, what a gift! Otters are the players of Animals kingdom. They are so funny you never get bored…. so intelligent and can use they paws in surprising way. I sometimes think there’s no difference between them and primates…. well, I definitely love them thank you Matt!
Great blog Matt! It’s been fun reading about animals seldom seen at Londolozi such as Megan’s post yesterday about her resident Bush Babies and now yours about the Clawless Otters. Like many guests I’ve never seen one of these otters but I’ve another opportunity come April so fingers crossed. Living in Northern California we have both River and Sea Otters, the latter pleasing visitors in the Elkhorn Slough near Monterey with their friendliness and antics, but I’d love to view the Clawless otters.
What fun sightings! I hope I have the chance to see some next visit!