This holiday began in 2014 by the International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF). The UK began this event and it is considered a 'world' event because otters exist on all continents except Antarctica and Australia.
Each of the 13 species of otters are at risk due to declining natural habitats, along with a few other reasons. On this awareness holiday, nature preservation groups provide educational and research programs to protect otters.
The River Otter vs. the Sea Otter
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| River & Sea Otters (source: Pixabay) |
There are two kinds of otters, the river otter and the sea otter. Differences include:
- Size - Sea Otters are much larger than River Otters
- Fur – Sea Otters have much denser fur needed for extra warmth in the colder oceans, compared to rivers and streams where River Otters live.
- Swimming style – River otters usually swim belly down and often lounge on the river banks. Sea otters often swim with their belly up and very seldom go on land.
- Motherhood – River otters often have 2 or 3 pups per litter and keep their young safe by their side. Sea otters usually only have one pup at a time and keep their pup nestled on their stomach as they float until they are old enough to swim on their own.
Otters are very social animals, and can be seen playing with family members by sliding around on their bellies and teaching each other how to catch food.
See them in the wild or in a zoo near you. If you would like a reminder of these adorable animals, Amazon has darling plush toy otters and Etsy gives you a wide range of Otter-Related merchandize. Two examples are presented below:
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| Sea Otter |
From Aurora World's Miyoni line of realistically styled plush animals comes this cute sea otter. He measures 10 inches tall and comes in a playful pose like the sea otters who float on their back. Soft and huggable plush.
Otter Potholders
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| Otter Potholders |
This is a set of two handmade potholders with a design of otters. The potholders are 8 inches square, and are washable and heavy so you won't burn your hands when you use them. They are handmade in cotton fabric by Carol of WildernessTies on Etsy.
Summary
These mammals are 'Otterly' adorable and a favorite in the animal world. So get ready to celebrate World Otter Day every year on the last Wednesday in May.
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| Sea Otters at Morro Rock, Morro Bay, California (Pixabay) |
*World Otter Day Holiday is reviewed by Wednesday Elf
