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Call for questions: OTTERS, PEOPLE (Patreon)

Published:
2022-05-26 19:01:11
Imported:
2026-06

Content

Lutrology. If not now, when? You have otter questions and in a few hours I’ll be asking them. CAN YOU EVEN.

Also last night we launched an Encore of a vital 2-parter on SLEEP and folks: it’s a great one. Don’t sleep on Somnology.

Okay, please give me your otter questions k bye.

Hearts & hugs & much appreciation to you all,

McAlie Dadward VonPodcast

Comments

cash.ruska

SLEEPING HOLDING HANDS????? ARE YOU KIDDING ME????

Marisa Garcia

Is it true that otters hold hands to prevent floating away from each other while they sleep

Anna Thompson

Chernobyl otters. What's their deal?

Michael MacLeod

Why are baby otters the cutest baby animal?

Rob Harbers

Why do they look so otterly sweet?

Jamie MacNeal

Is it true that otters have a “favorite rock” that they keep with them?

Winnie’s a Witch

In my little village we have a river/stream that *allegedly* has otters in it! I’ve been here six years, how can I spot them? From England!! Thanks :)

Megs

Second time question asker. I read that having an otter is like a Tasmanian devil on crack, is this true? Do they mate for life?

cash.ruska

Hello your name is Cassidy too and we just asked questions at the same time!

Buhbrie

What's with the pockets?? What are they for, just to keep their favorite rocks?

Emma Luck

Please talk about sea otter mating habits, I AM BEGGING, PLEADING, MORE PEOPLE NEED TO KNOW

Elaina Franklin

What's the cutest thing you've ever seen an otter do?

Dr. Niki

Why are giant otters so much more terrifying than their cute cousins?

Francesca Huggins

Is it true that Giant Otters can take down alligators and anacondas? Why would they do so?

Jesse Hurlburt

How ferocious are they? What's the teeth situation?

Ali Vessels

We've all heard that otters hold hands when they sleep so they don't drift away. Is this truth or flim flam? Please let it be truth.

Anna Thompson

Are river otters as playful as they seem at the zoo? Every zoo I've seen that has them as slides and other stuff for them. Is there a natural equivalent?

Jesse Hurlburt

Do they really hold on to each other so they don't float away?

Kristina Weaver

Otters holding hands. A cute thing or the cutest thing. Why do they do this? Is it purely to keep for getting separated or are there other reasons.

Penelope Adkins

How does a mammal evolve to eat critters at the bottom of the ocean?

Brandi Harbaugh

Why do the males hold the females under water to impregnate them? This seems counterproductive as she cannot have a baby when she’s dead. Also: why they so cute? Even if they can potentially be a murder.

Anne

In portland maine where i live, a pair of river otters took up residence in a pond in a local cemetery!! I got to see them in the late fall as the water was starting to ice up. When winter came and the pond iced over all the way... did they die???

shayla zink

Please talk about how they are absolute monsters and low key scary despite their cute facade

Jesse Hurlburt

I've heard a lot about otters using tools, is this true? Have they evolved to do this or is it just by chance it happens?

Alicia Henning

Why are otters so cute? Are they super intelligent and that's why they use rocks to break things and hold hands, or is this just something they do?

Jesse Hurlburt

Where are otters in the food chain, especially the giant otter, what's messing with those things?

Reuben Clamzo

What's up with the giant ones in South America? Are they just bigger because the fish available are bigger?

Michelle Tang

I've seen a lot of otter videos where they will rub their faces/cheeks as they roll around in the water. Why do they do this adorable thing?

Emma Sherwood

I learned on a highschool field trip to the zoo that male otters break each other's dicks to reduce competition, is this true??

Aurora Rogers

Do they know how cute they are? If so do they use that to their advantage? Also, I’ve heard them called water dogs, how close are they really to dogs?

Anika's Cat Arya

Why do otters float while holding hands and why do baby otters sleep on adult otters sometimes? Also, why do they have to be so gosh darn cute?? I can't stop looking at pictures of them now.

Emma Sherwood

Also --otters using tools: what's the strangest tool or most interesting technique the ologist has seen?

Caitlyn Schmaus

Why are otters susceptible to toxoplasmosis? I know people are told not to dump their cat litter down the toilet? What causes them to become sick from it?

Gerald Thompson

How good is their sense of smell? Are they super stinky because they rely on scent, or because their noses are so terrible that they need their musk to be super pungent just for them to be able to pick up on it?

Aly V

How far south did the California Sea Otter’s range go prior to them being hunted and will efforts ever be made to return them to these territories?

Rhona Taylor

Do they get cold??? We have otters in our local river in Scotland, and it's MAGICAL when you see them. But oh boy, it gets so chilly here. How do they stay okay in an icy cold river??

Mariah McGregor

Aquarium otters have plenty of (amazing) videos of them learning tricks, sorting objects, etc. Do these sorts of higher order thinking help them build and survive in the wild?

Alex Morales

Is it true, that despite being insanely adorable and sweet looking, they are in fact little assholes to anyone outside of their family?

Holly Spencer

Why are sea otters so cute but so damn evil at the same time?

Kate Shaw

What's the difference between a river otter and a sea otter and who would win in a face-off?

Anna Burgin

How are they doing? Some otter species are on the endangered list due to loss of resources. Is this something that could be helped, and how so?

Ethan Bottone

How related are sea otters and river otters?

Julia McDonald

Why are they all slippery? Is it an oil?

Jeff

Fur density!

Caity the Pizza Witch

First time question asker. Sea otters as rapists/murderers/necrophiliacs. What's the deal?

Jensen B.

Do otters have distinct personalities? What are the sleeping/resting habits of otters? What is their very favourite thing to eat? Do they all know that I love them? Also …. Giant river otters????? How many different kinds of otters ARE there?

Annalise De Young

I heard they have a special skin flap pocket thing in their armpit where they keep rocks for smashing open mussels and oysters and stuff. Is this real? Also- how sharp are their teeth and how strong are their jaws? How many babies do they have? How adaptable are they with the changing climate? How many different kinds of otters are there?

ariel.vanzandt

How are sea otters and river otters different?

Francesca Huggins

I heard that otter poop smells like violets- WHAT IN THE OTTER SHIT?? Is this true?

Char Harrison

Oh my life, Otters are my favourite mammal ever! I have so many questions. I would ask why I pathologically cry every time I see one, but I know it's because I can't handle the cuteness. FTQA: How did they develop pockets? What were they originally used for? Do we know? Why do they play with stones? To just be adorable? Is it a play behaviour? Do sea otters really sleep on their backs in the ocean? When do female river otters abandon their pups? Is it to help survival? Can I cuddle one?

Anfauglir

How closely related are otters to the other carnivores?

Brooke Fitchett

What is otter evolution like? What was the relationship between native folks and otters? Freshwater ecosystems aren’t always super clear or bright- do they hunt by sight?

Emily Branigan

FTQA: sea otters were extirpated from the Oregon coast in 1907. There have been attempts to re-establish a population here but all have been unsuccessful. WHY. Why can’t we get sea otters to like it here enough to stay? 😢

RJ Doidge

Otters vs beavers - let’s talk: related? Similar taxonomy? Totally different?

Claire Johnson

When I took my daughter to the zoo, the guide said "the otters poop is noteworthy" but then said nothing else...so like...what's noteworthy about their poop?

Carly Poczik

Do people ever eat otters? If so is it good? what does it taste like?

Nicole Kleinman

Otters always seem to be playing! Why are they so active?

ariel.vanzandt

I just started volunteering at a sealife rescue center and otters are one of the species we can help. What do I need to know about them to give them the best care?

Miranda Panda

OTTERS!!! Why have my outdoor education colleagues all seen an otter while teaching yet I still have not? 😩 Can they sense my desperation??

Sydonie S.

What's the outlook for both river otters and sea otters in terms of climate changes environmental impact? I just saw that a river otter has been seen in the Detroit River for the first time in 100 years. Is this a good sign?

Carmen

how many other families live in a river system?? like do they live as a group? or how concentrated is the population?

Kyle

How long have otters been in the water? How far back do we need to go until we see an ancestor of otters being a primarily land animal?

Nicole Kleinman

Is there a reason that otters cuddle? (Besides it being adorable)

Kate Aylward

American river otters are my favorite animal, and I've never seen one in the wild. I've been to areas where they have been supposedly thriving to try to spot them, but haven't been successful. What types of habitat am I looking for, any telltale signs, what types of waterways do they prefer, etc.? Any advice on quietly creeping on them in the wild would be very helpful! Thank you! :)

Melissa BoraHoneyBee

Where does the population of otters stand? Obviously it varies by species but how does it look?

potionmaestro

First time ask! Do otters really have favourite rocks and if so why? To use as tools, gifts? Or just to be aquatic pack rats?

Kate Timms

Why do they love ice so much? I’ve seen lots of videos of them playing with ice in captivity. Is there any evidence of otters playing with ice in the wild?

Miranda Panda

Forced choice: River otters or sea otters? (I know, I'm a monster for asking)

Matt Thompson

Do otters have a specific "home" or do they migrate with the tide and the river?

Miranda Panda

Personally I'm team river otter.

Allison D

Otters!! Do they actually hold hands while they sleep? What other adorable otter habits do I need to know about??

Diana Teeter

I adore otters and I want to cuddle them so much, but I know this is a very bad idea considering that the are wild animals and love to bite! I do get very worried about some of the “influencers” out there on social media that have them as pets. They constantly caution that they are rehabbers and that otters make terrible pets but people are people…are you seeing more otters in the pet trade?

shayla zink

What are the ethics around having a river otter as a pet?

ariel.vanzandt

Tell me everything about the floofy fur please!

Nate

How dangerous are otters? I used to volunteer at a zoo that had a couple river otters and I was told they’re one of the more dangerous species we had at the zoo. Apparently there was a time when we could go in with them but a zookeeper almost lost a thumb when one got cornered trying to transition it to a different cage for cleaning and more strict rules were quickly put in place while working with them.

Karly KW

What do they smell like? I suspect it's very stinky!

Lauren Legg

First time question asker! I’ve seen some videos online of otters clapping or tapping their paws, is that a thing they do in the wild or is it a taught habit of captive otters, and if it’s a wild thing why do they do it?

Scott Hanley

What is the closest terrestrial animal to an otter? It is so fascinating how they live in and near the water as opposed to in the woods.

WiGeekMom

How can they even be so adorable?

Hannah Bean

Have they always been that cute?

Mauri Pelto

I have had several opportunities to watch otters use a slide down a river bank, obviously a well used one, what is the practical purpose of these slides? Or this just fun like glissading down a glacier.

Jared Cousino

Is there a commonality between otters favorite rocks? Like, do most otters use one specific type of rock? (First time question btw)

Emily Ives

I was going to ask something like this!

Leigh

I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS ONE OMG !!!

Alex Parrish

How much of the otter’s original natural environment has been destroyed? How can we help to restore what has been lost?

DebDoesScience

Otter social groupings? What makes them different from other weasels? What sorts of physical traits make them friends with water? How vicious are they?

Claire

I live in Marin County, CA, where the river otters have recently repopulated successfully. Why is that, and are there lessons to be learned here that could help otter populations in other areas? (Also the mama and baby otter in the canal behind my house say hi!)

Emily Ives

What's the most un-cute thing you've seen an otter doing?

shayla zink

Can you speak to respectful wildlife viewing around Sea Otters? I know they need their space to get enough rest and people often get way too close in kayaks. But the people need to know!

Amelia Heins

Obligatory question: "have you booped their snoot?" and also, do they have secret six packs or just overall amazing muscles under their precious furs?

daniel schmaniel

are the observations of sea otters r*ping and killing baby seals common, or exaggerated?

Caelan Rathke

I live in CO where otters are in the beginning stages of being reintroduced into the wild. When there was talk about reintroducing wolves in Northern CO, I learned that the ecosystem had changed/adapted so much that bringing wolves back would be horrible for them and for us and for the ecosystem. There wasn't sufficient prey, territory, etc for them to thrive. The Colorado woods are not what they were when the wolves were in them. Is the same true for otters? How do you determine when its appropriate to reintroduce them to the wild? How do you reintroduce them in a way that is beneficial to the ecosystem as a whole? How do you make a plan to reintroduce a species? How do you ensure that the population thrives? Thanks Dad Ward <3 (my name is pronounced kale-un)

Sierra Orsinelli-Rivers

Hi!! First time question asker! How bad is the pet trade for the conservation of both sea otters and river otters and does it effect one kind more than the other?? AH CANT WAIT I LOVE OTTERS SO MUCH SO EXCITED

Miranda Panda

When I taught environmental education to kids, each week I led a brief lesson about keystone species, mentioning otters, sea urchins, and kelp. I would love to hear you talk a bit more in depth about their relationship to a wider audience if possible.

Molly Johnson

Have you heard "my belly" by aesop rock? Is it also your fav rap about otters?

Jessica Janssen

They seem like the best mama's cuddling their little babies and floating with them on their bellies. Are they the best?

Sherry Burch

Has anyone even tried giving an otter a harmonica? I mean consider the possibilities.

ben pollak

Do otters really sleep holding hands because if they do that is the cutest thing ever.

Mandy Hobson

Why can’t I join their cuddle parties? 🥺

Deacon Raid

Is there a reason the sex is so rough (eg induced ovulation) ??

Hannah Soyer

1.) What are things we can do to better the otter population? 2.) What jobs or volunteer opportunities can we do to be around otters? 3.) Why are they so ding dang lovable?

Martha Lowry

And what is the difference between them??

Wells Howe

Could repopulating otter colonies help to combat the urchin problem along the west coast, or would this lead to other downstream ecological issues!?

Sherry Burch

We've all seen otters with their tummy snacks, but how did they get them? Tell us the about their fierce predatory tactics.

JENN 'Benthopelagic squirrel' ALVAREZ

I have an on going "argument" with my BFF about otters. I say we should get one (not really) and he says they're "too bitey" are they? Say no so I can win this argument. 😛

Megan

Why do they hold hands? (if they actually do this) Also, how do the armpit pockets work? Like, is it just a flap of skin or is it more like a marsupial pouch?

Rebecca Learnard

Do all animals in the weasel family have the special arm pocket?? And if not why did otters evolve to have that??

Elizabeth Edwards

What percentage of time do otters spend on land?

Elizabeth Edwards

HOW CAN I GET ONE? (Asking for a friend.) (No really.)

Karina Cat

I know they like to play with pebbles and sledge on their stomachs do they play any other games?

Billiejean Bookhart

Hi first time question asker! ❤️ I heard that they have favorite rocks?! I need to know if it's true!!

Megan Ramirez

Were there ancient otters, and if so were any of those species big ol' heckin' chonkosauruses? (In normal adult human words, what has been the largest species of otter, extant or extinct?)

Harper

This is what my life has been missing! I have lots of questions: -How did sea otters and river otters evolve to have extremely different vibes, bodies, temperaments, etc? Cute lil' puff buddy vs. large slinky chaos -Do sea otters and river otters overlap in territory ever? Do they have any behaviors in common? How different are they aside from the amount of terror they induce? -Why do some river otters have red eyes that look like they can devour my soul? -Do sea otters have burrows or something similar on land, and do they sleep on land or out on the water? -Do otters give birth in the water? -How do otters not hurt their chests when smacking a rock into a shell on the go? If I tried to open a pecan by putting it on my lap and smacking it with a rock, that would hurt! -

Nita Chen

Greetings, Why do otters commit necrophilia and why such high sexual aggression towards immature pups? Does this aggression extend to different species?

Chris Brewer

Why are jaguars so scared of otters?

Loren R.

Have otters ever been used historically (or are being considered) as an adorable task force to control the overpopulation of purple sea urchins?

Zacharie Jackson

First time question asker and long time listener. Do they really hold hands while they sleep? And if so why are they so adorable? Lol

Leora Shimon

tell me about baby otters! Do they get born in the water? How fast do they learn to swim? How do they stay warm? do they have sibling rivalry or are they all best friends?

Kirsten Kinder

Yes can I get one and would a backyard pool suffice? and what would we do in winter?

Wade Lee

There are a lot of videos and photos online of people swimming with otters, doing other interactions and keeping them as pets. How is this affecting their wild counterparts? Also don't otters have a super strong bite? Interactions seem like a bad idea to me.

Karina Cat

Have been any discoveries of new otter species? I recall that the author Gavin Maxwell’s otter (Mij as was written about in the book ‘Ring of Brightwater’) was a ‘new species’

Karina Cat

Just, why are they so cute?

Kristi Hager

I third. This idea is so adorable and sweet.

Sylvia Scharf

How do sea otter pockets work? Like, can they swim with a rock in their pocket? Are their pockets better than those in most women's pants?

Kathleen Sachs

Have you seen the video of otters holding hands while they sleep? Why do they do that?

Harper

I'm horrified to learn about this and desperately need to know more!

James Nance

If there were a war between sea otters and river otters, who would win?

Kaitlyn Oaks

Do they really have a favorite rock that they keep in a pocket!?!?!? This is the cutest thing I’ve ever heard and I hope it is true!

Orion McCullough

What is the best thing you have seen or heard of otters playing with? I commercial fish in AK and see so many playful sea otters and it is literally therapy.

Kathleen Sachs

Can a troop of dedicated river otters really kill an alligator or crocodile? Do they mostly do it for the meat? Or are they doing it to protect their young? What other surprisingly large animals have they been known to take down?

Isabelle Brooks

Are they silky? How much do they hate captivity?

Kirsten Durfee

I live on the Monterey Peninsula, an area well known for sea otters. The history of their survival and resurgence due to a woman is awesome… but do you know the. Dark side? Look up sea otters and baby harbor seals (the rape them, drowning them in the process). Cute animals aren’t always sweet.

Debs Gardner

What’s up with river otters? Why are they so adorable when they scurry on land? And why have I only seen them by the sea or ocean, not rivers?

Kathleen Sachs

Are sea otters a linchpin species on the West Coast? What would happen to ecosystems along the Pacific Ocean should they go extinct?

Kathleen Sachs

What is your favorite species of otter and why?

Cassie Chatwin

Do they actually hold hands while sleeping or is that just a lie to make us love them? Do they have good vision or what other senses are they using to navigate in murky water?

Matt Ceccato

Is an otter a carnivore or an omnivore?

Jennifer Lamb-Morrison

I find it really interesting how coastal species evolve to survive in constantly changing environmental conditions. How fast are otters on land compared to in the water?

Kelly Shaver

What are the current research and conservation efforts like for southern sea otters?

Morgan

What's up with their kidneys? Why do they look like monkey bread?

Kelly Shaver

Have you ever cuddled a baby sea otter and is it as delightful as it sounds? Or did you have to wear the Darth Vader suit thing?

Will

Can you tell us more about domesticated otters? Are domesticated fishing otters a separate species or are they just friendly otters raised by humans? Does that relationship start by humans making concerted efforts to train the animal? Is it just a symbiotic relationship that became more rigid over time? Can I train an otter to bring me fish?

Kelsey lore

Otters use tools which I believe makes them unique among water-dwelling mammals. Is this an indication of a greater intelligence than other creatures?

Celeste Rousseau

OKAY WEIRD QUESTION BUT - why does it seem like otters are always *ahem* pleasuring themselves when we see them at zoos? Is there a lot know about otter sexuality? Is this just a behavior in captivity or also in the wild? Am I imagining things?

Kristi Hager

Several years ago I saw an otter in a small local aquarium, and it seemed to have a very small exhibit (maybe 15 ft. wide, 10 ft. deep, with a vertical wall of ledges and a slide). The otter was looping from the water up the ledges and down the slide steadily for the 10-15 minutes I was in the area. How much space do they need? These were river otters. And is that typical behavior - it seemed playful at first and then as it kept going I worried that it was obsessive/negative?

Rachel

Okay so the sea otter/ river otter split?? How long ago was that and how related are they now and what are the major differences between the two?

Nina Giacobbe

Do loner otters exist? Like, do they *need* to float down the river in pairs? Basically, there antisocial otters? PLEASE I MUST KNOW! (FTQA, last name pronounced juh-KOH-bee)

Rachel von Morrigan

I think it’s time for the hot goss. We all know how adorable otters are and how bad we wanna boop those snoots, but they are wild animals. Tell us their dark side!

Nita Chen

Greetings, Also, do otters demonstrate handedness?

Joseph Wooten

Why do otters hold items (for kike tools) and do they form attachments to them?

Emmalee Jones

Yes! I was gonna ask - how trainable are otters? Could they be trained to sniff out and target certain things ie. specific urchin species, and/or could I train a bevy of otters to do my bidding?

Courtney K

I absolutely adore otters! They are so curious and playful and intelligent. Adult otters play—is this just to play, or does it serve another purpose? Also, do river otters really have a communal "toilet"?

Ashley Oki

Can you please talk about otter’s little arm pouches? I love that about them

Ashley Oki

What are the main differences between river and sea otters, and are there any other species besides those?

Ashley Oki

I know that some otters become ‘foster parents’- what qualifies them for this, and how do we learn if a species can indeed foster young ones of their species?

herbaceouscreatress

How closely related are sea otters and river otters? Are they the most playful animals in the animal kingdom? And, most importantly, which of them wins the cutest battle?

Devynn Moore

What is the ologist's favorite otter (s) in the media? For me Redwall books and PB&J come to mind.

Amelia Frank

I always hear on nature shows about how it is VITAL that otter moms keep their babies dry -- but then, like, they hold them on their bellies and there is inevitably some flipper or tail dropping in the water. So: do they have to keep them 100% dry? Cause that sounds anxiety-provoking. Is it just that the otter babes shouldn't get soaked? How can otter moms deal? I'm stressed out just thinking about it...

Ashley Oki

I’ve been DYING to know this: So almost everyone knows that otters were nearly hunted to extinction which almost caused a catastrophic collapse of the ecosystem: the important thing is, however, are they really as soft as all that? Why was otter fur so coveted? Also, if ethics were not an issue and we could somehow get other fur coats without killing them, would you wear an otter coat/accessory?

Lene Olszeth

The rocks- is it one lifetime favourite, or just whichever one they happened to pick up last? Does it have to possess certain qualities or do individuals prefer different types? (Ps surname is pronounced like if "old set" didn't have a d)

Morgan

Also is it just north American river otters that have monkey bread kidneys, or do other species have them too?

Scotty Dee

I once saw a Clawless Otter in South Africa. What's with the no claws????

A. Williams-Pierce

Please tell me more about spraint. It's described as smelling floral? Is that true of all otters or only certain types of otters? Are any of the otters ... secretions used in scented or flavored products?

Paige McLachlan

Are they in the same group as marsupials because they have pouches?

Melissa Waud

YES! First time question asker and I love the otts. What’s the most goodest and safest and best ways to have an otter interaction in person (like I wanna cuddle one or swim with one or 100) and also how can I support my local otts?? Also pls check out Odd Otter Brewery in Tacoma, WA! Thanks ILYSSSSSM OK BYYEEEE

Paige McLachlan

Did river otters come from sea otters, or vice versa? Or did they come from a common ancestor?

Charlie Flores

So I know that otters fluff up their fur to make it waterproof, but I still don’t really understand how that works. Is it just the texture of the fur underneath?

Laura Schulte-Weich

Can you really fit one hundred otters onto a Lockheed McDonnel 3-12? (Anyone who gets this reference gets a virtual high five)

Kelly Semon

Where can I go to see them in real life??

Jessi B

My friend got crazy bit by a sea otter in Alaska…how strong is their bite? Do they attack often? If so, is it usually more aggressive or defensive?

Courtney K

Yes! I want to create an otter habitat in my backyard because I want them all to be my friends!

alicia t

If it ever came down to it, could we cross breed any species of otters to assist with their numbers?? How rough are the numbers for sea otters out West with the whole salmon, orcas, kelp, sea urchins situation goin on and how can we help?? THANK YOU!!!

Nicole Losurdo

How often do otters spend in water vs on land? Are there some activities that are purely for one location vs the other?

Lene Olszeth

This! How in the hospital would you be if you saw an otter and approached it like you were a Disney princess?

Seth

Are they good pets? Are they evil? I see videos of people givin em lil baths but I’ve heard that they’ll bite your face off so what’s up with that?

Wemily

Where do they sleep? Do they make burrows or just nap and float? Also do you love the otter emoji as much as I do?! 🦦

Jackie

What makes their fur special? I’ve heard they have the softest fur of any mammal

Elizabeth Jimenez

First time asker and so excited to be here!!! Are the genetics of the sea otters off California robust enough to support growing the population back up closer to historical levels? How would transplanting small populations to other historically inhabited area work or not work?

Aven

What’s the biggest thing you’ve seen them eat? I saw one once chomping on the leg of an octopus while it was still alive and trying to escape? How big of stuff can they eat?

Shayna Sessler

First time question asker! If a North American river otter could design its ideal habitat, what would it include? What can humans do to help make those dreams come true?

Aven

What’s their primary sense? Do they have good eyesight or smell? What do they use to find their food?

Aven

Why are they only located in the Pacific or coasts of North America? Why aren’t there sea otters in Europe or Asia?

Specs Owl

Why does the European otter's poo smell like lavender and jasmine tea, despite them living on a diet of fish? Other animals that live on a similar diet have disgusting smelling poo, but Eurasian otter poo could be the next fragrance from Calvin Klein - why?!?!?!

Specs Owl

Why are sea otters so aggressive, especially the males attacking the females and killing babies, but other species, like the Asian short-clawed otter, have a much gentler and playful nature?

BeckytheSassySeagrassScientist

Why are they so stinking cute and playful? The Asian small clawed otters at the National zoo literally scurry around chasing butterflies! Does this behavior help them in the wild? Is it common across other species? Also, just how bad would a boop end for me?

Margo

First time question asker! Do otters really have a little skin pocket that they keep their favorite rock in? do they use this supposed pocket for things other than rocks? And are the favorite rocks something they use as a tool or just a fun thing they like to have with them (like how i like to collect pretty rocks just for fun).

Margo

Also what are otter mating rituals like? I have seen otters chasing each other around on ice and never knew if it was just them playing around or if it was something related to mating rituals.

Erin Perry

Are they dog mermaids?? 🧜‍♀️ 🐶

Brittney Corrigan

What's the status of the reintroduction of sea otters on the Oregon coast?

Shea Porteus

First time question asker here; what makes a rock perfect for an otter? like what qualities does it have to have for it to get that otter elevator eyes? Is it like a only the best may do? Or more of a cheaper by the dozen deal? Thank you in advance for what I know will be an adorable episode!!!

Alyssa White

Otters get a whole lotta crap for being vicious. I've heard people say they murder animals for fun, they attack people, rape seal pups, etc. Are they really more monstrous than other animals or are we just putting a strange amount of narrative on them?

Alyssa White

I ask as someone who has loved otters since doing a 2nd grade diorama project about them...

Diane Tarantino

What's up with otters holding hands? It's adorable, but I'm guessing there's a reason otter than posing for pictures.

Specs Owl

Scotland! Since people stopped hunting them with dogs in the 70s, they've become more diurnal, and less feart of humans and dogs, so they can regularly be seen hunting, swimming, and splashing about and playing! They're often seen along the rivers in the town centres of Dumfries, Ayr, and Aberdeen 😁

Miriam

What's the difference between a sea otter and a river otter?? Is it just loving kelp??

Nick Mikash

They use rocks, but do they use other tools?

OneHappyPuppy

*FTQA - Why are they so otterly cute? (Sorry Dadward just following your lead) But also, what does the rolling all over and around each other do for social bonds? Is that its purpose? (A complete guess on my behalf.)

Kelsey Tarr

First time question asker, long time listener, shameless Ologies promotor 💕 Is it common for otters to hang around big ol' pinnipeds? I live in the Puget Sound area and about two weeks ago, I saw an otter snackin' on a fish near a bunch of sea lions. It was cool to see them together!

Kylie M Smith

I watch a lot of nature/zoo documentaries and have heard quite a few times that otters are the stinkiest animals to work with! Is that true, and if so why?

Jess Loeffler

How related are sea otters and river otters? Is it close? Or are they the relatives you meet at a family reunion and had no idea they even existed?

Specs Owl

Do you think Gavin Maxwell had a positive or negative impact on otters? And what's an otter's vision like; can they see well underwater?

Jess Loeffler

I've also heard toxoplasmosis harms these poor fellas, specifically sea otters. How bad is it? And what does it do to them?

Shawn McSweeney

We watched a male violently assault a female in order to mate. It was very triggering and went on for ever. She was bloodied, bit and nearly drowned. what’s up with that?

Michele Endean

WHY SO CUTE? Also, could they hurt you with rocks? How vicious is their swing / breaking ability?

Robin Stumbo

what's up with the arm pouches on sea otters? do they ever put anything other than rocks in it? also do they have the pouch as babies because i'm imagining a little one trying to fit a too-big rock in its pouch and i'm 🥹🥹🥹

Alexandre Catulle

How come otter digest shells, urchins etc? Doesn't it hurt them? Now that I think about it, gnawing wood isn't soft either 🤔 Hope you&fam. are doing well Alie :-)

Cat Baklarz

Why are river otters lean and sea otters are chunky?

Ira Gray

Why does otter birth control cause mammary and ovarian pathologies? I know theres been some studies in sea otters and they cant use hormonal implants

Ira Gray

Do otters have to breed the first year they are fertile or they die like other mustelids/weasels?

shayla zink

What’s up with sea otter’s lack of a collar bone?

Morgan Schulte

How do we make rivers better for otters? I canoe in the NC Piedmont a lot and it always feels like a special treat to see an otter.

Riley Mac

Do otters go through a process of determining the perfect pet rock?

Dr Laura M Smith

What adaptations do sea otters have that allow them to live in the salty sea?

E.J. Warner

What makes them such good exhibit animals?? They’re always my favorite because it actually looks like they’re always having a good time! Do they like the attention or do they play like that all the time in the wild too? Are they social or “pack” animals? I don’t think I’ve ever seen one alone in captivity. Do they have spine issues with them long ass torsos? Major differences between sea and river otters? How long can they hold their breath? Why are they SO CUTE!?!??!?

Dr Laura M Smith

What is the conservation status and outlook for the different species of otters across the world?

Mie [me-ay]

why are they so stinkin’ CUTE

Hannah Thorpe

Can you explain how their delayed implantation gestation works?

Mie [me-ay]

how many different types of otters are there AND how do they differ? 🤔

Mie [me-ay]

what makes them so charismatic? what is it in their nature that makes them so charming?

Anna Zimmer

I recently heard an otter CHEWING. I was tens of feet away across the water and could barely believe my ears. Tell me about their chompers!

CuttleCuddle

Please talk about sea otter pups being incapable of sinking or diving until a certain age because their moms fluff so much air into their fluffy fur!

Ashleigh Reisterer

Do otters really r*** baby seals and commit necrophilia with their corpses? If so…ummm…why?!?!

miles radakovitz

I heard otters have a pouch for their favorite rocks. Do they store anything else in their furry otter pocket? And on that note do they use any other tiny otter sized tools?

Kylie Wash

The poop dance. Please explain the poop dance. Is there an evolutionary advantage to the poop dance? Is it just the males that do the poop dance? Why are they such good dancers? I have so many questions and they are all about the poop dance.

Megan Johnson-Eiber

Other than where they live, are there any interesting differences between sea otters and river otters?

Mads

First time question asker :) are they really trickster’s? If seals are water doggo’s I’ve heard them likened to the cats of the water. Truth? Also do they really play on river banks :’) and does this lead to any social bonding or evolutionary rewards or is it just some rootin tootin fun?

Xavier Fleischood

WHAT IS THEIR SECRET TO WHITE TEETH? All the photos of them online show them with such sparkly whites! What the hell is that all about?!

Average_pi

Are otters waterproof Why they so CUTE I heard somewhere that they eat sea urchins because sea urchins eat seaweed that otters have their babies hold onto. Truth or flimflam Why they cuddle so much it’s VERY CUTE 🦦

Sheri Berry Bo Berry

FTQA- Why do otters prefer eat their urchin buffet off their fuzzy little chests? Can they eat right side up or must they always first do acrobatics? They'd make interesting guests at a dinner party...

Megan Younce

Why so cute?? Why do they hold hands? I just can't wait for this episode!!!

Kymberlee Royals

If keeping wild animals as pets was a thing would they make good pets? I want to snuggle with them.

Alia Myers

Why are they so cute?

Alia Myers

Can i keep one as a pet?

Alia Myers

Whats the difference btwn a sea otter and a river otter?

Alia Myers

Ive never seen one in the wild (toronto,canada), where do they live??

Alia Myers

Do they live in family groups?

Alia Myers

How long do they live?

Gordon Haas

Otters swim in COLD water. This is true of both river otters and sea otters. (We have both here in Oregon.) What protections, including dense fur, do they have that keep them from getting hypothermia? Why doesn't the Otter freeze in the Wotter?

Alia Myers

What sounds do they make??

Earl of Greymalkin

1) Are river otters and sea otter appreciably different? Are there any lake otters? 2) Have you read the Redwall books? Got a favorite otter character? 3) How good is their eyesight? What senses do they use the most for hunting? 4) How much time do they spend underwater vs. out? 5) Where do they sleep at night? How do they make homes and provide space to raise young? 6) Otters vs. raccoons: who would win? Are otters just water raccoons? 7) Have you ever booped those lil noses? Do they have toe beans? 8) How do otters stay warm in cold water? Do they have blubber? 9) What other animals are otters closely related to? What do we know about the context they evolved in? 10) Best otter puns I can annoy my friends with?

eHawk

Do we need to cancel otters over what they do to baby seals???

Some Random Frog

Do they actually hold hands when floating in the ocean? Is that just a thing adults tell hyperactive kids?

Bálint Novák

Ok what's the deal with all the cute stuff? Like the floating-on-their-backs-holding-hands stuff? And the hauling-up-some-big-@ss-rock-to-crack-a-clam-shell-on-own-chest stuff?

Bálint Novák

Also, are they the absolute psychos raping baby seals or is that dolphins?

Bradley Hogle

First time question asker: how often / for how long do otters leave water? Do they sleep on land or in water?

TayBo33

How are otters being effected by the exotic pet trade?

Krystyna Dallaire

Where do they live? Specifically, is it true that they sometimes move into abandoned beaver dams/lodges? Seems like a move that makes it the beaver's less responsible cousin... Also, I've seen videos of otters teasing alligators - what is going on here? Good sense of humour/ love of risky behavior/ inter-species rivalry? Also, also - are they genuinely as snuggly and huggy and coo-ing as the internet would have us believe or is there just a disproportionate amount of Otter Cuteness (TM) on the webs? Thx!

Arran Cass

Can we talk about spraint?? Why so distinct???

Felix Wolfe

How are they so adept with rocks n tools and such when their arms are so damn small?

Felix Wolfe

Do otters really have a favourite rock? Is it a right of passage thing or a happenstance discovery some otters might make but others won’t?

Felix Wolfe

Why do they have lil armpit pouches? Are they actually for their favourite rock?

Seán Thomas Kane

Do we know how otters evolved and how there are otter species so spread out around the globe?

Felix Wolfe

Does them being so friggin cute help them in any way beyond being perfect babies for humans to coo over?

Felix Wolfe

what makes them “water proof”?

Sam Shafer

OKAY. So this is my moment. I have seen the otter at the aquarium doing behaviors that QUITE LOOK LIKE masturbating! She was having a GRAND OL TIME and it lasted no less than 10 min before she swam off and continued eating her fellow habitat-buddy’s poop (shrimp so nice eat it twice) and she even shed a single tear (or water was just dripping from her eye who’s to say). Did I witness the magic I think I did?! Is this behavior unique to animal in human care or are wild otters also horny with too much time on their hands? Seems like the cushiness of the aquarium setting gives the horny fluff gremlins plenty of time for pleasure, but has this been observed before?! Is it weird to say I have a video? For research!!!!!

Felix Wolfe

how many species of otters are there?

Sam Shafer

A seven year old sea otter to be specific!

Robin Kuehn

Why do people love otters but hate other weasels? If we get fishers to use a slip-n-slide, will people stop freaking out (in a bad way)?

Katlyn Gagnier

I’ve read about otters forcefully mating with and drowning other animals, like young seals and even dogs. WHY do they do that? How common is it?

Adrianne Mahon

Has there been any research about why giant river otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) are so much bigger, less stereotypically "cute" and weirder looking than the other species?

Kris Wylie

At what age do they pick their rocks and how long do they hold on to them for?

Michael K.

I read that otters have underarm pockets. Besides for storing their most prized rocks, what are these little pockets actually for from an evolutionary perspective?

Megan L

How intelligent are otters? One time I was at a zoo that had it’s own reality TV show and I had just watched the episode on the otters. I called out their names at their enclosure and they all came running out to greet me! It was the sweetest thing but they were expectant of fish and I had none so I felt bad haha

Sharika Elahi

i have heard that otters are aggressive animals - is this true?? are they just hiding behind their cuddliness??

Jessalyn Pennington

Why so cute? Also I have read they can have a favorite rock- do favorite rocks tend to share any characteristics like shape or density?

Heather Moore

Are Otters the cats of the waterways? They seem to hunt and kill for fun, much like cats? What is the ecological impact of Otters on the environment? Are they apex predators? How does the ecosystem balance out their hunting?

Aaron Sherrill

My wife is obsessed with Otters. I won’t let her get any as pets but I have an alternate plan. Is it possible to build a mote at our house next to a river and lure them to live next to us?

Karen Burnham

Do otters have their babies on land or in the water?

janet russell

My (adult) son says if he ever gets a tattoo (yes, there are 30 year old humans without tattoos!), it will be of an otter because the otter is his spirit animal. What would you say are the attributes of someone who holds the otter as his spirit animal?

Alex Kim

Why is the Southern sea otter's fur so dense? (Highest hair count per square inch for any animal).

Stacy Graves

Completely unrelated to this topic, but I just want to say that Alie, we all love you sooooo much! You are a bright spot for so many people and I know everyone here on Patreon and who listen to you each week would do anything in our power to be a bright spot for you also. 💗💗

Meghan McLean

As a diver who frequents Monterey, California, and who sees a lot of otters up close (they’re so curious and will come check you out), what are the signs of an aggressive or too-curious otter? We want to keep them, and ourselves, safe.

Jason Gemmill

I heard that otters have very aggressive mating habits. Do tell…

Super_Sara

Do they really “hold hands” or is this action actually something else entirely?

Kirsten

1st time question asker :D River otters, sea otters, what kind of other otters are out there for us to learn about? Eeeee, I'm so excited! Okay, question... sometimes when we would visit the Oregon Zoo, the sea otter seemed to be, ahem, cleaning himself. Do they masterbate?

Amie Nenninger

What is unique about the digestive system that lets them swallow all of these pieces of shells? How does their esophagus & stomach handle that, let alone the back end of their digestive system? 🦦♥️

Sarah Morcom

1st time question asker: on behalf of my partner who loves rocks, he wants to know if they keep the same rocks over their life? - Sarah (she/her)

Lee T.

Errrmagerrrrd!! Yes! I LOVE otters! Okay so why are they so cute and curious? Do they mate for life? Why are their whiskers so long? How come the swim alongside my kayak on the river? Do they feel joy? Cause I’ve watched them run laps on rapids and clap after. How did they evolve - fresh or salt water first? What’s their greatest skill? How do they spread giggles and joy on the river but strike fear in your heart on the ocean? Pete Fromm dedicates an entire chapter of his amazing book “Indian Creek Chronicles” to watching river otters in the Idaho spring lap rapids and eat fish “like frozen hot dogs” (he’s not well known but, Alie, you gotta read his books!). Why are they low key mythological creatures? 🥰

Christy Mitchell

1st time question asker: My husband Chris wants to know "why do otters have favorite rocks? Are they strictly utilitarian or for fun or a mixture of both?" My questions: How many favorite rocks does an otter have over its lifetime and what is the average otter lifespan? How many young do otters have at a time...singlet, twins, litters, etc? How often do momma otters breed usually, how much investment do they put into raising their young, and do the male otters assist in raising young? Do they have armpit pouches under all four limbs? Do baby otters have to be taught how to use their armpit pouches? What's the absolutely most disgusting and/or horrifying thing about otters, and does it at all negate the insane level of cuteness that they ooze from every molecule of their being? I have to admit, the animal episodes are my absolute favorites to listen to while driving. This one should be epic!

moss

(1st time question asker) do zoos and aquaria impact/harm otter behaviour? more about the ethics around this? is there any mythology surrounding otters? what do otter habitats look like? where are they the most comfy? and is climate change/environmental degradation impacting their habitats? why do otters spin and twirl a lot? i've seen otters just spin in circles, is it a sort of play or are there other reasons?

Between Dumplings

I just heard somewhere about giant otters 🦦 are they real? What is the range in otter types? And their habitats?

Between Dumplings

Do they love oysters 🦪 as much as I do? I think so!

XOL

If I were hypothetically going to fight an otter or group of otters, what do I have to watch out for? My gf saw two otters in the swale where we live in Florida (we do not live in the swale) and as a Florida native I have to be ready.

The Project Project

Everybody else has asked all the questions I had! Except for one: What are a sea otter's caloric needs, and how much time do they need to spend hunting and eating on the daily? N.B. Sea otters are the reason why I'll be moving my boat from Sacramento to Monterey Bay sometime this winter.

The Deal with Animals- Podcast

I was surfing off the Oregon coast about 20 years ago and one of my friends yelled "Look, Its Sean Connery!" and pointed over my shoulder at the waves. I turned but could not see Sean Connery surfing anywhere. When we got back to the beach I asked where he saw Sean Connery and he gave me a weird look and said, "I said, Look, Its a Sea Otter". So my question is. Why do Sea Otters look like Sean Connery

Lauren Cooper

Why do they have such cute little people hands? And how do they use those hands to find prey?

Beverly Sobelman

Hoo boy, this one is super exciting. I am lucky enough to live on a lake with semi-resident otters, so boy howdy do I ever have questions. I'm going to limit myself to these two: 1. Like other folks have asked, what's up with their mating and family-raising habits? I've seen what looks like a family group of 4, but also a lone otter, and then a few times we saw all 5 together. How long do the bebes stay with the parents? Is the single one maybe from an earlier litter of the same family? and more importantly: 2. What is up with the POOP DANCE? They seriously look like they are twerking when they poop, and even better, when one starts up, the others often join in! It's an OTTER POOP DANCE PARTY on my dock. It's amazing. And also super messy.

Maria Delgado Gomez

My mom and I listen to Ologies in the car. She's wondering about the parenting habits of otters. Are they single moms? How long do baby otters stay on Mom's chest? When do baby otters learn to swim? I want to know about their little noises. Do we know what they mean? Do they have languages/dialects if from another pond? Where did otters first evolve?

Maria Delgado Gomez

Sea otters, river otters, muskrats, beavers 🦫 are they related? Do they have any similar behaviors?

Cynthia Cinnabar

How representative is the iconic Snoop Dogg otters vs. crocodile video of otter behavior?

Melissa Van Londersele

Do they really have sex with baby seals (till the seal pup dies) ? Savage.

Kyla C (KAI-luh, rhymes with Myra or Lyla)

Also: are otters mating habits very aggressive? I heard it gets to the point that female otters, young pups, baby seals, and even a dog can get harmed 😬😬

Ben McCarthy

Do otters really have a favorite stone they keep in a pouch, and if they do, how do they choose their stone? Is there an elaborate sort of ottery ritual??

Makenna Lawson

So... I hate to ask but necrophilia I heard is a thing among otters... Is this fact or fiction?

Makenna Lawson

Also does anyone know why they chew with their mouths open?

Amy Bumford

I live in Michigan and just last month a pair of river otters were seen in the Detroit river. This is very exciting and a little scary. What is the likelihood of the return of a stable population, and what can and should be done to help them along? Or...are they doomed?

Amy Bumford

P.S. 1st time question asker ;)

Rob Brennan

I know human morality shouldn't be applied to animal behaviours, but still, what's with all the murder, SA and necrophilia???

Beck

THEIR LITTLE HANDS. That's all I got

Alexandra Noyes

My daughter Carmilla wants to know if/how they grieve & how much we know about their emotions in general

Caitie McCaffrey

What are Otter's social structure like? as an outsider it seems to be based on cuddling and it looks delightful. Is it really this idyllic?

Popita

I live around the Detroit area in Michigan and recently otters have been spotted again in the Detroit River. Which is exciting news. So what is essential for an otter to have in its environment to return to an area? How do they even know it’s safe to come back?

Jovie D.

Otters and baby seals.....please explain. Also, where have all the river otters gone? I live in SW PA and our eco drivers license plate has an otter on it, but where are they!?!?

Sarah king

I see others are asking the same thing, but how can they be so dang cute and also so vicious?? Those poor baby seals

Rachel Katz

Why do sea otters spend so much time munching on their butts?

Alex

Is there anything cool to know about how otters communicate with one another?

Doctor (almost!) Elder

I’ve seen pictures of them using rocks to crack open shellfish, is this accepted as being them using tools? Do they select special rocks for the task?

Carly Cushing

What are the benefits of them locking together and floating like a raft? Other than staying together and looking deceptively wholesome!

Emily

1st time question asker - how fast and far can otters travel? Do they return to the same areas consistently? Do they have otter friends that they travel with?

Sam Phillips-Corwin

Hi everyone!! So excited to finally be asking a question after being an avid ologies fan for months now. I wonder what key ancestors and adaptations shaoed the otters we have today? Like, was there a giant sloth sized otter back in the day? Or a sabertoothed otter? Also, do otters often interact with other marine mammals like seals? Do they ever hangout together?

Carrie Cimo

Are there any otters that inhabit transition zones between rivers and oceans?

Carrie Cimo

How many species of otters are there in the US/worldwide?

Carrie Cimo

What effects are changing water temperatures and climate change having on otters?

Carrie Cimo

Do otters maintain a social hierarchy?

Brita Goldstein

What is the truth behind the handholding behavior in sea otters? Is it real? Or just a cutesy social media hoax?

Brita Goldstein

My friend is big swimmer, and one time while she was swimming in our local lagoon, she was bitten on the foot by a river otter! I had never heard of this happening before. Is this a common behavior?

Michelle Husko

Do clawless otters actually not have claws?

Michelle Husko

Also want to know the legitimacy of otter hand holding. Is this fur realz?

Ruby Bray

Do otters migrate, or change their activities season to season??

Ruby Bray

What bodies of water do otters live in

Mckenzi Brinkley

1st time question asker- do they really hold hands while sleeping?

Daniel Ross

Is it true that mother otters dunk their pups into the water like a basketball to teach them how to swim? If so, why does that work?

Daniel Ross

Why do otter pups get stored away in strange places, like on docks, by their mothers? And how long does it take until otter pups are able to be in the water?

Andy Josten

First time question asker!!! WHY?? Do they really hold hands?? Do they have favorite rocks? Do they have little pockets under their arms to hold their favorite rocks? Can I hug?

Ginja Ninja LB

I love this! Our otters at the Oregon Zoo use the glass between us to open their shellfish. It's effective and super adorable

Ginja Ninja LB

First time question asker! :) I've seen many people with otters as pets online... what are the risks with this? (I think they should live in the wild where they belong, but I can see why it would be soooo tempting).

Sausage Head

Do Otters mate for life? How many litters do they have on average? How many otter babies to a litter? I'm from Australia so I don't know much about otters.

Linda Wenker

First time question asker (finally)... Do these cute little ragamuffins spend much time looking for the perfect rock to crack open clams and shellfish or will any rock do. Also, is there an otter sanctuary or rescue organization that will allow me to cuddle with said ragamuffins?

Gordee

1st time question asked- Have they always created damns or is it an evolutionary response? Also how is pollution effecting their damn building/ overall life?

Kathryn Daniels

I heard that river otters' fur works in a special way to repel water and make them basically adorable furry Olympic swimmers. Can you talk about this?

Evan Villavicencio

I heard that otters each have their own unique rock that they keep in a little pouch under their arm - is this flim flam? I really want this to be true

Joy Kotheimer

What are the biggest threats to these adorable noisy slinkies! And do they have a lot of competition with beavers or do they share habitat space well?

Anna Patel

First time questioner! Our default image is of otters playing - are they really that playful, or do they just have good PR? 😁

Mazie Lewis

First time question asker here :) What behavioral differences are there between river otters and sea otters?

Brad Lord

First time asker. Ummm, the forced coitus of other otters and animals…. Just why??

The Wizard Seraphim

Are they related to felines, since they have those same mouths and flexible bodies. How social are they? Do they really hold hands while they sleep? WHY ARE THEY SO ADORABLE??

Silja Tusa

first time question asker: how much do is known about the giant otters in the Amazon? I feel like no one addresses these giants and I have so many questions, the first one being How and also Why are they so big

Silja Tusa

there are still giant otters in the Amazon they can be 170cm long, not as giant as the giant sloth but still Too Big

Chandler Witherington

I volunteer at a wildlife sanctuary in central North Carolina and it has a few small ponds and an otter has been spotted in one of the ponds on occasion. Why would an otter just come every so often? Do they have territories? Was it looking for a mate? Also, are there any secrets to spotting one? We also have muskrats in the area. How would I be able to tell the difference between an otter swimming and a muskrat (or similar animal) swimming? I just realized I have a lot of questions. What is their closest living relative? Were there ever giant otters like there were giant ground sloths?

Chandler Witherington

oh geez I just thought of another question. Are there big differences between river otters and otters that live in the ocean?

Chandler Witherington

One more thing: if you happen to ask any of my questions/say my name on the show, could you please say hello to my husband David? He loves otters but "didn't have any otter questions"????

Stephanie Leské

1st time question asker & lover of Otters! 1. Would they be able to swim so well without those OTTERLY muscular tails? 2. Are there ever disputes during a restful raft, like do otters hold grudges & refuse to hold some otters hands? 3. I've seen zoo otters playing with little stones & pebbles (it's a level of cute that I can't even!!)do they do this in the wild or is this a captivity boredom thing? 4. Please tell me about their silky sleek furs! My boyfriend James (also a listener) & I are just back from a staycation in Scotland & we visited a river with an OTTER viewing platform! Sadly we seen no otters! 🦦

Stephanie Leské

Also sending massive wishes & love to all the family & glad you're taking the time you need to focus on what matters. I'm loving the encore episodes since I binged them all that I pick up on something new from each relisten! Lots of love xx

Janelle Shaw

Can you talk about the FBI report on otters? Apparently they are “the most dangerous” “clever” and “sneaky” animals? Also, how do baby otters always float and they have to learn to swim?! It’s so cute and crazy it’s not instinct. Our thought and prayers are with you Alie, so much love and hugs sent your way!

Ashlyn Woodcock

(She/her) (First time question asker here 👋🏼) so what’s with the rocks? I too enjoy collecting the cool mini earth moons and holding them… but what’s the obsession, why do they juggle them and could it be any cuter?

Jules Kingsland

Sooooo cute 🥰 is it flim flam that they put there babies on kelp so they don’t float away

GreenBriar

Why so playful? Is it truly just play, or. does the behaviour serve otter purposes?

Marina Larson

Has there ever been instances of sea otters in captivity, using their favorite elbow pocket rocks to smash shit and escape? Just curious...

Tania Domenech

Clara (10 years old)- Second time question asker! Is it true that adult otters use themselves as a table for their offspring to eat a fish on them, or is that just flim-flam?

Amber Elizabeth

They’re adorable, but should we actually be afraid of them?

Liana Haigis

Just joined the Patreon so happy to be here!!!!! First time question-er. DO THEY REALLY HOLD HANDS?! Does it have something to do with the fact that they’re monogamous(?)? And what’s the difference between types of otters?? Thank you!!

Amanda Corey

Please say you are speaking with someone from the Elakha Alliance??

GK Gurley

Can they come back to the rivers around Tennessee please?

Lainie McKeating

Giant Otters in South America: No question, actually, but I once came across a giant otter while tromping around in the Pantanal/wetlands of Brazil. I felt equal parts lucky and terrified because that dude did not want to share the river with humans, so we left in a hurry.

Unorthodox Studios

Why do their offspring need to stay dry when they’re first born? That just seems like a lot of work for the mom.

Caitlin Corrigan

Is it true they have a 'pocket' under their arm to keep rocks/snacks in? or is that a myth?

Caroline Birnhak

What's the deal with people in Asia having them as pets? Why isn't it illegal?

Estie Munro

In the history of our planet, how long have they been the animal that we know today? What is their evolution story? What are their closest relatives?

Jenna Congdon

I love otters. They are just ridiculously adorable. But I've heard they rape baby seals??? WHAT?! Please tell me this is not true.

Willow Hall

Otters!!! I love these animals so much. How widespread are river otters? What was their original range and how has that changed to today? Also are there sea otters native to the U.S.? Finally what can I do to help their wonderful creatures?? P.S to all who need some 24/7 otter love in your life the Monterey Bay Aquarium has a live twitch stream and Livestream on YouTube of their sea otters that I HIGHLY recommend!

Nora Woodworth

1st timer here, tho it won't be my last. What's with the river otter poop dance? Does it have a purpose? Or are they just quirky AF?

Xavier Fleischood

How efficiently can they pick things up with their tiny paws? I know they don't have thumbs, but their little grabby mitts look so delectable and fun.

Autumn Nicoson

1st time asker ! :) Just how thick is their fur and what is the evolutionary purpose of it being so thick? Also scat dances.. Why though? I feel like I see so many videos of otters doing all sorts of tasks. Are their brains on par with dogs and cats, or smarter?