Monday Mustelid #1

There are fifty-five species of Mustelid in 24 genera. Each Monday for the next year, I will presenting you with a photo of one of the members of this fascinating Carnivore family.

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Oriental Small-clawed Otter, Aonyx cinerea Illiger 1815.

Click for big version. Bonus image below the fold.

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More like this

I admit I'm a sucker for cute, furry things. But even those of you who prefer the scaly creatures have to be won over by these little fur balls: Photo credits: Jason Collier/SeaWorld Orlando, c/o Zooborns These are some of SeaWorld Orlando's newest arrivals: a pack of four Asian Small-Clawed Otter…
The small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinerea) is the smallest otter species presently known. They derive their name from their relatively short claws that do no extend past the fleshy pads on their feet, which actually allows them an increased amount of dexterity when handling their food.
A small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinerea) in a short tree, photographed at the Bronx Zoo.
A small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinerea), photographed at the Bronx Zoo.

Hooray! I'll definitely be looking forward to this feature (mustelids don't usually get the attention they deserve).