There are thirteen species of otters divided into two living environments, the river and sea.  Otters grow to be around four feet long and males weigh over sixty-five pound and the female over forty-five pounds. Their hearing is excellent and they can see very well under water.  Otters have flipper-like hind feet for propulsion and their whiskers can sense movement in the water. The retracting claws on the front paws are cat-like and otters have an excellent sense of touch.  The otter has a long stream-lined body, small ears and a broad muzzle.  Their extremely thick fur that keeps them insulated in frigid waters.  They are the one of the very few animal known to use tools.  

OTTER MEDICINE

• As otters are very territorial they tend to live alone.  This medicine teaches independence and self-reliance for our needs. 

• Otters are very playful and are frequently seen They are often seen floating on their backs with their paws extended out of the water soaking up sunrays,  sliding on their bellies playfully, performing water acrobatics or chattering to their neighbors.  Their relaxed and happy attitude about life reminds those to whom the otter spirit splashes to laugh and enjoy life to its fullest. 

• Otters are curious about everything in their domain. They will touch or sniff every object within sight.  No stone, plant, critter or other object will escape the otter's appetite to know, "who or what are you?".  This special medicine reminds us to always look at situations, events and people from different angles; to always be open to new challenges.

• Otters are agile and fast in the water.  Water is the element of emotional energy in man.  Otter spirit teaches us how to swim through problems and emotional upheavals of life with ease. 

• Otters are very good parents and nurture their offspring longer than most marine mammals.  The relish the company of their neighbors Otter medicine emphasizes nurturing energies within us and the creative and interactive, comforting associations with other beings.

• The otter likes to talk and they are often heard chatting away to anyone or anything within earshot.  When frightened their calls take on an eerie piercing sound similar to a baby screaming. They have few natural enemies and are not afraid of humans.  If the otter swims into your life the message may be to rid yourself of fret, worry and pain.  Enjoy the blessings Creator has provided and follow the otters lead.