Home alone: Records of abandonment of still-dependent giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) and neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis) individuals in Brazilian amazon

Abstract

Despite the increase of Lutrinae studies, the knowledge of some behaviors remains limited, especially those that are rarely seen. This study presents three cases of cub abandonment by Pteronura brasiliensis, and one for Lontra longicaudis. The three cases of giant otter abandonment occurred in nutrient poor habitats. The neotropical otter case may be related to cub illness. The current reports, and any future reports they encourage, could be important when developing conservation plans for these species, since natural deaths may have implications for population dynamics. Such reports could also contribute to an understanding of the circumstances surrounding abandonment behavior.