35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Mammalia; Order: Carnivora; Family: Mustelidae; Genus: Pteronura; Genus species: Pteronura brasiliensis. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 96-123 cm; Weight: 22-32 kg; Identification: The coat coloring of the giant otter is a dark burnt umber. Its chin, throat, and chest are marked with cream-colored patches; Habitat: Freshwater rivers, slow streams, lakes; Diet: Carnivore: fish eggs, aquatic mammals, birds, fish, crustaceans; Reproduction: Giant otters are nonseasonal breeders, although most births occur during the dry season. The gestation period is 65-70 days long, after which 1-5 young are born. The baby otters are weaned five months after birth; Social Structure: Giant otters travel in groups called holts. Only the dominant female in each holt is allowed to give birth each year; Behavior: The entire holt helps care for the young; Status: Endangered: hunting for fur, habitat destruction; Interesting Facts: This is the largest species of otter. They are often referred to as 'river wolves'.