Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra)

OTHER NAMES: European Otter, Otter, European River Otter 
Latin Etymology: Lutra ("otter") lutra ("otter") 

Adult Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) at Market Deeping, Lincolnshire - May 2026

Featured Subspecies: Lutra lutra lutra
Weight: 7-12kg  /  Length: 57-95cm 
NO UK STATUS / IUCN Red List: Near Threatened

A very widely distributed species found broadly across most of Eurasia where suitable habitat is available as well as some range in Algeria and Tunisia. Formally extremely rare in the UK due to pollution and persecution it has now reestablished in every county but remains a secretive and difficult animal to connect with.  They are primarily pescivorous but will expand their diet to wider prey as required. 
 
Related Species: 
Order: Carnivora 
Family: Mustelidae 
Genus: Lutra
SUBSPECIES: L. l. lutra, L. l. aurobrunnea, L. l. barang, L. l. chinensis, L. l kutab, L. l. meridionalis, L. l. monticola, L. l. nair
 
- Sighting Locations -

UNITED KINGDOM - A widespread but scarce resident

 - Seen at Market Deeping in 2026 

Further Notes: BirdForum Opus, IUCN Red List, RSPB, Wikipedia, Xeno-canto