cape clawless otters wildlife conservation

The Enchanting Cape Clawless Otters: Cape Town’s Exquisite Natural Inhabitants

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Despite the increase in sightings, their overall population is decreasing, and they have been classified as ‘near threatened’, highlighting the urgent need for their conservation. Cape clawless otters are a remarkable species of otters found in Cape Town, South Africa. They are adorable and playful creatures, but it’s important to watch and appreciate them from a safe distance as they are wild animals. The Cape clawless otters enhance Cape Town’s rich natural heritage, and their charm has even inspired the iconic Otter Trail hiking pathway.

cape clawless otters south africa

Cape Clawless Otters: Playful and Endearing Creatures of South Africa

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Cape clawless otters are one of the most endearing creatures on South Africa’s coastlines. These shy, nocturnal, and diurnal animals, slightly larger than one might expect, are the largest freshwater species after the South American otter. Unfortunately, their population is slowly decreasing, and they were listed as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 2014. However, their playful nature and endearing appearance make them a favorite among locals and tourists.