Costa Rica's Water Dog: The Neotropical River Otter

River otter looking at the camera from the river bank
 
In the heart of Central America lies Costa Rica, a land teeming with biodiversity and natural wonders, including the adorable neotropical river otter (Lontra longicaudis). Fondly referred to as "water dog" in English and "nutria" in Spanish, these playful creatures inhabit Costa Rica's rivers and streams, and nature lovers always consider themselves lucky when spotting them.
Their charming antics not only make them enjoyable to watch but also highlight their adaptation to an aquatic lifestyle.  Neotropical river otters are really some of the most charismatic and interesting creatures in Costa Rica that often get overlooked by more popular animals. Join us as we explore their world!