African Clawless Otter
wildlife of Namibia
Introduction: African clawless otters (Aonyx capensis) are extremely elusive animals due to their survival instinct of swimming away from riverbanks at the slightest disturbance. Otters groom and dry themselves by rolling in the grass and rubbing against rocks and the soil, habits that attract crocodiles.
This species gets it's name from the webless front feet. They can grope for food whilst swimming along a river bed by poking its fingers into holes and under stones. A cunning ploy to attract food is to make a beeline for aquatic vegetation and disturb potential prey by thrashing its feet around. They can hold its catch by the front paws and feed in the water. Larger prey is taken on land.
Distribution: Found in Northern Namibia only in the far western reaches of the Kunene River and the Caprivi region, including the Chobe River. Its desire for fresh water to wash the salt from its fur explains both freshwater and marine habitats.
Diet: Rock lobster, frogs, birds, insects, fish, molluscs, reptiles and small mammals, but mainly crabs. The African clawless otter will sneak onto farms to prey on chickens, geese and ducks.
Colouring: Thick brown hair, less for white bellies, neck, throat, upper lips and cheeks.
Breeding: Litters vary from 1-3 with a gestation period of 60-65 days.
Size: Length 1.3m. Weight: 13kg.
Epupa Falls Lodge A tented camp on the banks of the Kunene River close to Epupa Falls and Himba settlements
Fort Sesfontein
On the border between Kaokoland and Damaraland this fort was built at the same time as the fort of Namutoni in Etosha
Kapika Waterfall Lodge
On a hill above the Kunene river, the lodge has tremendous views of the surrounding area and looks towards the Epupa Falls
Kunene River Lodge
An excellent lodge in a remote location on the banks of the Kunene River, for those interesting in birding, relaxing or river rafting this lodge is an absolute must
Ohakane Lodge
One of the oldest lodges in the Kaokoland area, from here guest can visit Himba villages and other areas of interest in Kaokoland
Okahirongo Elephant Lodge
Near the tiny settlement of Puros, this luxury lodge offers you the ability to search for the desert adapted elephants
Okahirongo River Camp
On a hillside overlooking the Kunene River this small intimate camp offers accommodation for a maximum of 14 people.
Opuwo Country Lodge
This is one of the newer lodges in Opuwo - it has beautiful views over Kaokoland -a real desert oasis
