Giant Otter Shrew

Potamogale velox

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Afrosoricida · Tenrecidae

About

The giant otter shrew is a semiaquatic, carnivorous afrotherian mammal. It is found in the main rainforest block of central Africa from Nigeria to Zambia, with a few isolated populations in Kenya and Uganda. It lives in streams, wetlands and slow flowing larger rivers. It is the only species in the genus Potamogale. Otter shrews are most closely related to the tenrecs of Madagascar.

Fun Fact

Giant otter shrews swim using powerful lateral sweeps of their flattened tail — like a crocodile — and they are the largest living tenrecs, reaching 60 cm including the tail.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Tropical rivers and streams

Diet

Piscivore

Lifespan

5-8 years

Threats

Water Pollution
Invasive Aquatic Species

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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