These are generally secretive and solitary animals, spending the vast majority of their time in or near water. If you see more than one otter together it will generally be a mother with her cubs, with males leading a solitary life. They can live in coastal areas relying on the marine environment for food or be primarily river dwelling animals. In rivers they can occupy territories greater than 30km in length.

Females will rear cub's single handily in litters of two or three. The cubs are born, at any time of year, in dens known as holts where they will remain for 10 weeks before venturing out with their mother.