Breeding Behavior of Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) in the Xixuaú Reserve, Roraima, Brazil

A population of giant otters was studied in the central Brazilian Amazon at the Xixuaú Reserve, Roraima, in order to gather ecological and behavioral data. Through the period 2000-2003 14 litters were recorded, all concentrated in a few months (August-December) during the receding water and low water seasons. The reproductive peak seems to be connected to the food availability in the water river system. Litter size varied from 1 to 4 cubs with an average of 1.8 (n=12). It was confirmed that a strong positive correlation exists between group size and reproductive rate, although no evidence of the “baby-sitting” system described by other authors was found. The study supplies information on cub development and confirms that all the group members are involved in the cubs rearing.