The main reason that these Otters were hunted though was for their fur. This carnivorous mammal inhabits the rainforests of South America. By the year 1840, almost all of the California sea otters were exterminated. Many of the different species of Otters have been heavily hunted in the past. Currently, Giant Otters are still classed as ‘Endangered’ because they face new threats in the 21 st century. This species is the largest member of the otter family. The trade of sea otters was continued until the animals were virtually wiped out. Learn how their webbed feet, fur, and ears are perfectly adapted to their riverine environment. Giant otters are members of the weasel family. Giant otters wake up during the day making them diurnal. Why are Sea Otters Endangered? This is why conservation efforts are in place to help them continue to survive. In previous assessments, they were listed as Vulnerable (1982-1996) and then Endangered (2000 onwards). Giant otters are the largest of any otter in the world growing up to 1.8m. Find out why the world’s largest otter has become endangered. Quick facts. The trade was banned in 1910, with signing of the treaty between America, Japan, Russia and Great Britain. As a result the numbers of them are quite low. Giant otters are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and were last assessed in June 2014. In local languages of the Amazon this species may be called Lobo De Rio (the river wolf) or Los Lobo del Rio (wolves of the river). Two years later, Giant Otters were listed under Appendix 1 of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) – this section is reserved for species threatened with extinction. Habitat loss and over-hunting have caused it to become endangered, and it is now found in only one-fifth of its original range.Let’s find out more about the giant otter … Otters and their mustelid relatives were once hunted extensively for their fur, many to the point of near extinction. Giant otter facts, pictures, video and in-depth information. Otters Conservation Status.