What is the Difference Between Otter and Beaver?

Otters and beavers are both semi-aquatic mammals, but they have several differences in terms of appearance, behavior, and diet. Here are the key differences between these two creatures:

1. Appearance: Otters have long, sleek bodies with more pointed, dog-like heads, while beavers are stocky with a rounded head and long incisor teeth. Beavers also have a large, flat tail that they use for swimming and balance, whereas otters have a long, slim body with a long tail that tapers to a point.
2. Size: Beavers are much larger than otters. An adult beaver can weigh up to 60 pounds, while an otter only weighs around 15-25 pounds.
3. Diet: Otters are carnivores, consuming fish, crustaceans, amphibians, and waterbirds. Beavers, on the other hand, are herbivores, eating aquatic plants, twigs, bark, and leaves of trees.
4. Behavior: Beavers are mostly active at night, while otters are active during the day. Beavers are known for building dams and lodges out of sticks, branches, and mud to create a safe home for their families, while otters do not build homes and live in dens that they dig into the ground or find under rocks.
5. Reproduction: Otters mark their territory with "spraints," which are faeces fragranced with scent gland secretions, deposited in prominent places to warn off other otters.

In summary, otters and beavers differ in appearance, size, diet, behavior, and reproduction. While they both inhabit aquatic environments, they have distinct roles in the ecosystem and unique adaptations for their respective habitats.

Comparative Table: Otter vs Beaver

Here is a table comparing the differences between otters and beavers:

Despite their similarities in living near water and being skilled swimmers, otters and beavers have distinct physical compositions and lifestyles. Otters are carnivorous and have a sleek, elongated body with a powerful tail, while beavers are herbivorous and have a more rounded body with a flattened tail. Their families are also different, with otters belonging to the Mustilidae family and beavers to the Castoridae family.