Have you ever seen cute videos of otters playing and juggling with rocks?
Otters are well-known for their affinity for rocks, which serves a variety of purposes related to their survival and daily activities.
Here are some reasons why otters love rocks.
Tool Use
Otters are among the few non-human animals known to use tools.
They often use rocks to help them open shellfish, such as clams and mussels.
They place the shellfish on their chest and use a rock as a tool to break open the shell by repeatedly striking it.
This behavior demonstrates their intelligence and adaptability in obtaining food.
Anchoring
Otters use rocks to anchor themselves in fast-flowing water.
They dive to catch fish and other aquatic prey, and by holding onto a rock with their front paws or wrapping themselves in aquatic plants, they can stay in one place without being carried away by the current.
Play and Enrichment
Just like other intelligent animals, otters also engage in play.
They may use rocks to play games, juggle, or engage in other playful behaviors.
Playing with rocks can provide mental stimulation and enrichment for otters.
Communication and Territory Marking
Otters might use rocks as a way to communicate with each other or mark their territory.
They may leave piles of rocks in specific areas to signal their presence to other otters.
